Falls caused by uneven concrete South Dakota walkways are more common than many people realize. Cracked sidewalks, raised pavement, broken parking lots, and shifting concrete slabs can create serious trip hazards. When property owners fail to repair dangerous surfaces, injured victims may have the right to seek compensation.
At Northern Plains Justice, our Sioux Falls injury lawyer represents victims hurt because of unsafe walking conditions throughout South Dakota. Call 605-306-4100 for a free consultation.
Why Uneven Concrete in South Dakota Creates Legal Liability
Property owners in South Dakota must maintain reasonably safe premises for lawful visitors. This includes inspecting and repairing hazardous walking surfaces.
To succeed in a claim involving uneven concrete South Dakota conditions, you must prove:
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A dangerous surface condition existed
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The owner knew or should have known about it
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The condition was not repaired or properly warned about
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The hazard directly caused your injuries
Because insurance companies often argue that sidewalk cracks are “minor” or “obvious,” documenting uneven concrete South Dakota hazards is critical.
Common Examples of Uneven Concrete South Dakota Hazards
Uneven surfaces can appear in many locations. For example:
Raised Sidewalk Panels
Concrete slabs may shift due to freeze-thaw cycles common in South Dakota winters. Even small elevation differences can create tripping hazards.
Cracked or Broken Pavement
Deep cracks and deteriorating concrete weaken structural integrity and increase fall risk.
Sunken Entryways
Improper drainage may cause slabs to sink near entrances.
Parking Lot Deterioration
Commercial parking lots often develop potholes and uneven walking paths.
Tree Root Uplift
Expanding roots frequently push sidewalks upward, creating dangerous height variations.
Because these conditions develop over time, property owners typically have constructive notice of uneven concrete South Dakota hazards.
Injuries Caused by Uneven Concrete South Dakota Falls
Trip and fall accidents often result in forward-impact injuries. Common injuries include:
- Facial fractures
- Broken wrists
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee ligament tears
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal disc damage
In particular, elderly individuals face a high risk of hip fractures following uneven concrete South Dakota falls.
How to Prove an Uneven Concrete South Dakota Claim
Insurance carriers rarely admit liability immediately. Instead, they often argue:
- The crack was minor
- The condition was open and obvious
- The victim was not paying attention
- The defect developed too recently to fix
Therefore, strong evidence is essential.
Important Evidence in Uneven Concrete South Dakota Cases
Valuable documentation includes:
- Photographs with measurement references
- Maintenance and inspection records
- Prior complaint history
- Surveillance footage
- Witness statements
- Expert surface evaluations
An experienced Sioux Falls slip and fall lawyer can investigate whether the property owner had sufficient notice to repair the uneven concrete South Dakota hazard.
You can learn more by visiting our
Sioux Falls slip and fall lawyer page:
Compensation Available After Uneven Concrete South Dakota Injuries
Each uneven concrete South Dakota case is unique. However, recoverable damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Surgery and rehabilitation costs
- Lost income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
For broader injury representation, visit our
Sioux Falls personal injury lawyer page:
What To Do After a Fall Caused by Uneven Concrete South Dakota Conditions
Taking immediate action strengthens your claim.
Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
Prompt treatment connects your injuries directly to the uneven concrete South Dakota hazard.
Photograph the Defect
Capture multiple angles and include a ruler or object for size reference.
Report the Incident
Notify the property owner and request documentation.
Preserve Shoes and Clothing
Damage patterns may later support your claim.
Avoid Public Statements
Do not post about the accident online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uneven Concrete South Dakota Cases
How long do I have to file a claim?
In most cases, South Dakota allows three years to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Can a city be liable for cracked sidewalks?
Possibly. However, claims against government entities may involve special notice requirements.
What if the crack was small?
Even small height differences can create liability if they present an unreasonable hazard.
How much is my uneven concrete South Dakota case worth?
Case value depends on injury severity, medical costs, and the strength of liability evidence.
Speak With a Lawyer About Uneven Concrete South Dakota Today
If you were injured because of uneven concrete South Dakota walkways or cracked pavement, you should not face the insurance company alone. Early legal action can preserve evidence and improve your chances of recovery.
Contact Northern Plains Justice at 605-306-4100 for a free consultation.
