What if a Slip and Fall Accident Causes a Pedestrian Accident?
Posted April 19th, 2017 by Anthony Carbone, PC.
Categories: Slip and Falls.
It’s a beautiful spring day. You decide to take a walk to the local convenience store to get a soda then head to the office. As you are about to cross the street, your foot gets caught on a crack in the sidewalk right in front of the store. You stumble and fall into the street. You’re fine but before you are able to get up, a car hits you. Who is responsible for this accident?
We’ve spoken a lot about slip and fall accidents, especially during the wintertime. But even in the nicest of days, a slip and fall accident can occur. Some of the major causes for slip and falls include:
- Slippery conditions such as a leak, snow, or ice
- Broken or uneven sidewalks, stairs, or walkways
- Debris such as clutter in a store isle
- Unsafe surfaces
When a slip and fall happens in front of a commercial or a multi-family property, causing an injury, the owner may be held responsible for the accident. But what if the accident leads to another, more serious accident? Who can be held at fault? In the case described above, you definitely have a claim against the driver of the car. Even if you have fallen, the driver should have been paying attention and see you on the ground. However, it could be difficult to prove a premises liability case. Yes, your accident was caused by a hazardous condition. But the accident itself did not cause an injury — you were not injured in the slip and fall, only by the car — you may not be able to sue the convenience store.
In the case described above, you definitely have a claim against the driver of the car. Even if you have fallen, the driver should have been paying attention and see you on the ground. But, it could be difficult to prove a premises liability case. Yes, your accident was caused by a hazardous condition. But the accident itself did not cause an injury, right? You were not injured in the slip and fall, only by the car.
It’s important to remember when it comes to any type of an accident, you need to prove fault. In this case, the fault lies with the driver. But could the convenience store owner be at fault? These are important questions that you want to ask your attorney.
Your best bet is to contact an experienced premises liability lawyer in Jersey City to assist you with your claim. Contact the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone today for a free consultation.
