Q: I was walking downtown and passed a construction site when debris fell from the roof and I suffered severe abrasions on my face and hands, and a broken shoulder. Who is liable?
A:
You should be able to recover damages from the construction company, which is responsible for keeping public sidewalks free from falling debris. If the company doesn't prevent this and debris falls on passersby, the company may be liable. Construction companies should always tell pedestrians they risk injury in areas normally used by the public. If posting a sign is not enough, the company should place barriers and warning lamps around the unsafe area.
