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Hidden Hazards: The Risks of Neglected Public Stairways in Los Angeles

By Peterson Law Group on April 19, 2025

In a city as hilly and sprawling as Los Angeles, are essential corridors for many pedestrians. Neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Echo Park rely heavily on these staircases for foot traffic, daily commutes, and community access.

When public stairways are neglected, they can pose serious dangers to residents and visitors alike. Crumbling concrete, broken handrails, and poor lighting are hazards that can result in severe injuries or fatalities.

At Peterson Law Group PC, we help our clients navigate the complex intersection of municipal obligations and California premises liability law when accidents occur on dangerous public property.

The Importance of Public Stairways in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is famous for its car culture, but its public stairways provide a vital pedestrian alternative in steep, urban neighborhoods. From the historic Music Box Steps in Silver Lake to the hidden staircases of Echo Park, these stairways often serve as shortcuts that connect otherwise disconnected roads. They enhance walkability, promote exercise, and reduce car dependency.

It’s important to remember that many of these stairways were built decades ago and have not received the maintenance necessary to meet modern safety standards. Without regular inspections and timely repairs, they deteriorate—becoming dangerous for daily users.

Common Hazards on Public Stairways

Residents of Los Angeles may encounter a variety of hazards when using these stairways, including:

• Crumbling or uneven steps: Weathering and time can degrade concrete, leading to tripping risks.
• Missing or broken handrails: A lack of sturdy support increases the risk of falls, especially on steep or lengthy staircases.
• Poor or no lighting: Many stairways are unlit, creating serious safety concerns after dark.
• Overgrown vegetation: Bushes and trees can obstruct visibility or even dislodge bricks and stones onto walking paths.
• Graffiti or vandalism damage: In some areas, misuse contributes to structural degradation or hidden obstacles.

Understanding Municipal Liability

When injuries occur on public stairways, one of the first questions victims ask is: Who is responsible?

In most cases, the answer is the municipality—usually the City of Los Angeles or another local governmental agency. Under California law, government entities are obligated to maintain public property in a reasonably safe condition. If they fail to do so and someone is injured as a result, they may be held liable under California’s premises liability statutes, specifically under the legal doctrine of dangerous public property.

Claims against municipal entities are more complicated than standard personal injury cases. Victims must comply with strict procedural requirements, including:

• Filing a government claim within six months of the injury date (per California Government Code §911.2).
• Clearly identifying the location, nature of the hazard, and how the municipality’s negligence contributed to the injury.
• Demonstrating that the municipality had actual or constructive notice of the hazard and failed to take reasonable action to remedy it.

At Peterson Law Group PC, we help clients gather evidence, submit timely claims, and pursue all legal avenues to hold negligent public agencies accountable.

How California Premises Liability Law Applies

California premises liability law typically governs incidents that happen on private property. However, it also applies to public property when the government owns or controls the area in question. Under these laws, victims must show:

1. A hazardous condition existed on the property
2. The entity responsible knew or should have known about the condition
3. The hazard caused the injury
4. The injury resulted in damages, such as medical costs, loss of income, or long-term disability

What Injured Pedestrians Will Want to Do

If you’ve been hurt on a public stairway in Los Angeles, you may be eligible to file a premises liability claim against the city or another public entity. Here’s what you can do to protect your claim:

• Document the scene: Take photos of the hazardous stairway and any injuries sustained.
• Seek medical attention: Not only for your health but also to create a record of your injuries.
• Report the incident: File a complaint with the City of Los Angeles or the appropriate municipal agency to ensure your injury is officially logged.
• Consult with an attorney: Government claims are governed by unique rules and deadlines. Legal representation from a Los Angeles dangerous public property lawyer can make all the difference in building a successful case.

At Peterson Law Group PC, we understand how to approach cases involving dangerous public property and municipal negligence. Our extensive experience in real estate and property-related litigation gives us a unique advantage in identifying city code violations, uncovering long-standing maintenance issues, and effectively advocating for victims.

Why Municipal Negligence Matters

Municipal negligence doesn’t just endanger individuals—it affects entire communities. Allowing public infrastructure to deteriorate signals a broader neglect of neighborhood safety and accessibility. If stairways are unusable due to poor upkeep, residents may be forced to walk on streets without sidewalks or drive instead of walking, undermining public health and safety goals.

When cities are held accountable, they are more likely to prioritize inspections, funding, and improvements. Legal action can thus lead to broader systemic change, making neighborhoods safer and more equitable for everyone.

Contact a Public Stairways Premises Liability Lawyer in Los Angeles

For over 35 years, Peterson Law Group PC has been getting justice for our clients. Our law firm receives high marks from the independent rating agencies Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers, and firm founder John Peterson is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

If you’ve been injured on a public stairway in Los Angeles, call (213) 319-4993 to learn more about your legal options today.