Slip and fall accidents are unfortunately common occurrences that can lead to serious injuries and, in some cases, long-term consequences. When such incidents happen on public sidewalks, the question of legal liability arises, prompting many to wonder if they can sue the local municipality or the state of California for a slip and fall. In this blog, we’ll delve into the legal landscape to determine if it’s possible to pursue legal action and under what circumstances.

Liability in Slip and Fall Cases

California premises liability laws dictate that property owners, including the government responsible for public sidewalks, must maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. However, establishing liability in a slip and fall case can be complex. Generally, for a successful lawsuit, the following elements need to be proven:

Negligence

To sue the state of California for a slip and fall on a public sidewalk, you must demonstrate that the government was negligent in maintaining the sidewalk. Negligence could involve failure to repair known hazards, improper construction, or insufficient maintenance.

Actual or Constructive Notice

Proving negligence also requires showing that the government had actual or constructive notice of the dangerous condition. Actual notice means they knew about the hazard, while constructive notice means they should have known through reasonable inspections. This is often the most difficult aspect to prove in a premises liability case.

Causation

There must be a direct link between the government’s negligence and your slip and fall. If your own actions contributed significantly to the accident, it might impact the viability of your case.

Government Immunity

It’s crucial to note that governmental entities often enjoy a level of immunity from certain lawsuits, and the State of California is no exception. However, this immunity is not absolute. The California Tort Claims Act allows for legal action against the government under specific circumstances. Consulting with an attorney well-versed in slip-and-fall cases will help you navigate this complex legal landscape.

Exceptions to Government Immunity

There are exceptions to governmental immunity in slip and fall cases. If the dangerous condition was caused by a government employee’s negligence or arose from a non-discretionary function, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. For instance, if a city worker failed to repair a known sidewalk hazard within a reasonable timeframe, it could be considered a breach of duty.

Timeline to Make a Claim

If a government entity is a possible responsible party, the timeline – or statute of limitations – to file a claim against them is shorter than a normal private-party statute of limitations. These deadlines can be as short as only six months, and failure to make a claim within that timeframe can be a total bar to making a claim.

How Bonnici Law Group Can Help

If you’ve experienced a slip and fall on a California sidewalk and are considering legal action, the experienced attorneys at Bonnici Law Group can provide invaluable assistance. Specializing in personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents, our legal team is well-versed in California’s premises liability laws. We can evaluate the specifics of your case, determine liability, and guide you through the legal process.

While suing the State of California for a slip and fall on a public sidewalk is not a straightforward process, it is possible under certain circumstances. Proving negligence, establishing notice, and navigating government immunity require legal expertise. If you find yourself in such a situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable law firm like Bonnici Law Group to ensure your rights are protected and to explore the potential for compensation for your injuries and damages. Call us at (619) 259-5199, or click here for a free consultation.