Whose Accountability?

[Jessika]

The business does not own the sidewalk, just like the business does not own the street in front of their business. The sidewalk is the city's job to maintain, so it is the city's responsibility for its upkeeping, not the businesses'.

Unless this was completely on private property (as in, the sidewalk outside walmart), in which case it IS the business' property.

I guess I really need more information -- where was the sidewalk, on a strip of businesses along a city street? a sidewalk in front of a store on private property in the parkinglot (think walmart or target)?

[caseysmom]

I personally believe there is not too much personal accountability anymore and think the person should have watched where they were going.

[Scooter's Mom]

I personally believe there is not too much personal accountability anymore and think the person should have watched where they were going.

I know this is the minority opinion but I wholeheartedly agree.

[lizbud]

Unless this was completely on private property (as in, the sidewalk outside walmart), in which case it IS the business' property.

I guess I really need more information -- where was the sidewalk, on a strip of businesses along a city street? a sidewalk in front of a store on private property in the parkinglot (think walmart or target)?

That's right, more info is needed. Did she/he report the fall to the business?

[Karen]

As someone with a poor sense of balance, I consider it my own fault when I fall. It is my responsibility, as an adult human being, to be responsible for my own actions, and to be careful. If I am not careful, and I fall, it is my own fault. I can SEE if the sidewalk is uneven if I bother to look.

Does the "faller" not have health insurance? A lawsuit's gonna cost a whole lot more time and money than a doctor bill for a small fall ...