A man from California is seeking $35 million from the city of San Diego following what his lawyer describes as a preventable sidewalk accident that resulted in life-altering injuries.
The 70-year-old sustained a broken neck and back after tripping in the Mission Hills area on May 11. His attorney, William M. Berman, states that the fall has left the man in need of constant medical care as he continues his recovery at home.
According to NBC San Diego, Berman claims that the man and his wife were returning to their car after dining at a local sushi restaurant when the accident occurred.
Security footage from a nearby animal clinic recorded the incident. The man, who has not been publicly named, is seen using a walking aid as he approaches his vehicle before tripping on the exposed base of a parking meter.
Although the parking meter itself was reportedly removed last year, its metal base remained protruding from the sidewalk. After losing his balance, the man fell face-first into his car, resulting in serious injuries.
“They stick out about one to two inches from the sidewalk. The city must ensure these bases are removed from the sidewalks,” Berman stated, as reported by UNILAD.
Files $35 million lawsuit
The attorney has now submitted a claim for $35,000,000 in damages, contending that the city left the parking meter base in “a hazardous condition.”
Berman also claims that similar exposed parking meter bases can be found in other neighborhoods throughout San Diego.
In an interview with CBS 8 San Diego, he expressed that his client is hopeful the lawsuit will result in safer public walkways.
“My client wants the city to keep its public sidewalks in a safe state.
“My client aims to ensure that the city is accountable for its maintenance program.”
Berman also stated that the city reportedly “ran out of funds to uphold its parking meter maintenance program,” which has left meter bases exposed and creates “a risk to the public.”
Local residents have voiced their worries about the dangers posed by the sidewalks.
Laura Landisi, a nearby resident, shared with NBC: “Especially since my husband uses a walker, the sidewalks are uneven due to the tree roots.”
Her husband, Robert, remarked: “If you’re not careful, you could easily run your wheel right into it. Thankfully, I haven’t fallen yet.”
UNILAD reached out to the city of San Diego for a statement. The city replied: “The City cannot comment on individual claims or potential litigation.”
