Public sidewalks, parks, and government buildings should be safe for everyone. Yet uneven pavement, poor maintenance, and loose fixtures cause countless falls each year. When the government fails to maintain its property, you still have rights—but timing and notice are critical. Luckily for you, a skilled New Orleans slip, trip, and fall injuries in public lawyer from Mike Brandner Law can help with what comes next after a fall.
Falling on government property adds extra legal steps. Louisiana law lets you hold cities or parishes responsible for unsafe sidewalks, curbs, and public facilities—but deadlines are short. Here’s what to do after a trip-and-fall in a public place. Call us today at (504) 345-1111 to get a free consultation and find out what we’ll be able to do for you.
Common Public-Property Hazards
There are a large variety of potential hazards that can lead to trip and fall injuries in public. Some of the most common that our attorneys have seen and helped with over the years include:
- Broken Sidewalks or Curbs—Often caused by tree roots or weather erosion.
- Loose or Missing Tiles in Entrances—Slippery when wet.
- Poor Lighting at Crosswalks—A frequent factor in nighttime falls.
- Debris After Storms—Branches or gravel left behind create hazards.
No matter what the specific cause of your trip and fall accident was, it’s important you secure the services of a skilled attorney right away to give yourself the best chance at recovering maximum compensation.
Special Rules for Claims Against Government Entities
Filing a claim against some sort of government entity is different from filing against a regular property owner. Here are some factors you’ll need to keep in mind if your injury happened on government property:
- You must file notice quickly—often within 6 months.
- Damage caps may apply, but negligence must still be proven.
- Evidence (photos, witness information, and medical records) must be gathered quickly before the city repairs the defect.
Steps to Protect Your Claim
There are certain precautions and steps you should take as soon as possible following a trip and fall injury in public. These include:
- Report the defect immediately to city or parish officials.
- Photograph the hazard before it’s repaired.
- Obtain witness contact information.
- Seek medical care right away.
- Contact an attorney experienced in Louisiana public-liability cases.
Damages May Include:
- Past medical expenses
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
Contact a Top New Orleans Trip and Fall in Public Injuries Lawyer
Did you suffer a trip and fall injury on public property? Don’t miss your deadline to file. We’ll help you Get JU$TICE. Give us a call at (504) 345-1111 to get started. You can also reach us via LiveChat or use our secure online contact form to get in touch.