Manoukian Law Firm
Manoukian Law Firm

Sidewalk Accident Attorney in Woodland Hills, CA

Government Liability for Sidewalk Injuries in Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley

Sidewalk accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and long-term mobility issues. In California, many of these incidents occur due to uneven pavement, tree root damage, poor lighting, or neglected maintenance. When a sidewalk defect causes injury, the responsible party may be a government entity, a private property owner, or both—depending on local ordinances and the location of the hazard.

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Manoukian Law Firm, P.C., located in Woodland Hills, CA, represents individuals who have been injured in sidewalk accidents throughout Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. The firm focuses on government liability claims and understands the complex procedures required to hold public entities accountable.

Understanding Government Liability for Sidewalk Injuries

California law allows injured pedestrians to pursue claims against cities, counties, and other public entities when a dangerous condition on public property causes harm. Under Government Code Section 835, a public entity may be liable if:

  • The sidewalk posed a foreseeable risk of injury
  • The entity had actual or constructive notice of the hazard
  • The entity failed to take reasonable steps to correct the condition

In Woodland Hills and other parts of Los Angeles, sidewalk maintenance responsibilities may be shared between the city and adjacent property owners. Determining who is liable requires a detailed investigation of ownership records, municipal codes, and maintenance history.

Manoukian Law Firm, P.C. has extensive experience navigating these issues and pursuing claims against government agencies for sidewalk-related injuries.

Common Causes of Sidewalk Accidents

Sidewalk hazards are often preventable. When public entities fail to maintain safe walkways, pedestrians are placed at risk. Common causes include:

1.

Cracked or uneven pavement

4.

Obstructions such as trash bins or construction debris

2.

Tree root upheaval

5.

Inadequate lighting or visibility

3.

Poor drainage or water accumulation

6.

Improper grading or ADA violations

1.

Cracked or uneven pavement

2.

Tree root upheaval

3.

Poor drainage or water accumulation

4.

Obstructions such as trash bins or construction debris

5.

Inadequate lighting or visibility

6.

Improper grading or ADA violations

These conditions can lead to trip-and-fall or slip-and-fall incidents, especially for elderly individuals, children, and those with mobility challenges. Manoukian Law Firm, P.C. investigates each case thoroughly to identify the cause and determine whether the hazard meets the legal standard for a dangerous condition.

Filing a Government Claim in California

Claims against public entities follow a strict process under the California Tort Claims Act. Before filing a lawsuit, injured parties must submit a formal claim to the appropriate government agency within six months of the incident. This claim must include:

  • A description of the accident
  • The nature of the injuries
  • The location and time of the incident
  • The amount of damages sought

Failure to file within the deadline may result in the loss of legal rights. Manoukian Law Firm, P.C. prepares and submits government claims on behalf of clients, ensuring compliance with all procedural requirements.

If the agency denies the claim or fails to respond within 45 days, the firm proceeds with litigation to pursue compensation through the courts.

Filing a Government Claim in California

Claims against public entities follow a strict process under the California Tort Claims Act. Before filing a lawsuit, injured parties must submit a formal claim to the appropriate government agency within six months of the incident. This claim must include:

  • A description of the accident
  • The nature of the injuries
  • The location and time of the incident
  • The amount of damages sought

Failure to file within the deadline may result in the loss of legal rights. Manoukian Law Firm, P.C. prepares and submits government claims on behalf of clients, ensuring compliance with all procedural requirements.

If the agency denies the claim or fails to respond within 45 days, the firm proceeds with litigation to pursue compensation through the courts.

Legal Strategy and Case Development

Sidewalk accident cases involving government liability require strategic planning and detailed evidence. Manoukian Law Firm, P.C. builds strong claims by:

1.

Documenting the hazard with photographs and measurements

4.

Consulting with engineers and safety experts

2.

Interviewing witnesses and gathering statements

5.

Establishing notice and foreseeability under Government Code Section 835

3.

Reviewing city ordinances and maintenance logs

1.

Documenting the hazard with photographs and measurements

2.

Interviewing witnesses and gathering statements

3.

Reviewing city ordinances and maintenance logs

4.

Consulting with engineers and safety experts

5.

Establishing notice and foreseeability under Government Code Section 835

The firm also evaluates whether adjacent property owners contributed to the hazard, such as by altering the sidewalk or failing to report dangerous conditions. In some cases, liability may be shared between multiple parties.

Representation from Manoukian Law Firm, P.C.

Sidewalk injury claims demand precision, professionalism, and persistence. Manoukian Law Firm, P.C. provides client-focused representation for individuals injured in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities. The firm coordinates with medical providers to document injuries and calculates damages for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost income
  • Pain and suffering
  • Future care needs
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement

With a deep understanding of personal injury law and government liability, the firm advocates for full and fair compensation.

Contact Manoukian Law Firm, P.C. Today

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective sidewalk in Woodland Hills or the San Fernando Valley, contact Manoukian Law Firm, P.C. at (818) 676-9734 for a free consultation. Government claims are time-sensitive, and early action is essential to preserve your rights.

The firm is ready to investigate your case, identify the responsible parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

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