Big-box hardware stores have exploded in popularity over the past couple of decades. These supercenters allow homeowners to tackle improvement projects without the assistance of professionals.
It is not uncommon for homeowners to put down pavers instead of pouring concrete sidewalks. When these pavers traverse a comparative flat expanse, they are usually no riskier than other types of walkways. Still, if a DIY sidewalk has a step at its end, though, you may fall on a dislodged brick.
Where the sidewalk ends
According to Lowe’s, novice homeowners should try to avoid placing steps at either end of their sidewalks. This requires grating the earth’s surface to make a gradual incline or decline. If the incline or decline is too sharp, though, there must be a step where the sidewalk ends.
Pavers tend to be only an inch or two thick, so big-box lumber yards sell larger bricks that make perfect endcaps when installers place them on their sides. On their sides, though, these bricks can wobble and fall over. To protect visitors, delivery drivers and others, homeowners should use construction adhesive to attach endcap bricks to adjoining pavers.
What you can do to stay safe
You probably have no idea whether a paver sidewalk has wobbly endcaps until you step onto the sidewalk. Therefore, it is advisable to step onto the pavers instead of the endcap bricks when you walk on a DIY walkway. If you step on the endcaps, you may suffer a serious injury when the brick wobbles and collapses.
Ultimately, if you suffer a life-changing injury in a fall on a DIY sidewalk, you may be eligible for financial compensation to pay for your medical expenses and other damages.