San Diego, December 24, 2025
A woman in San Diego has filed a lawsuit against the city after she tripped on a raised handhole cover at the Embarcadero, leading to a broken pelvis. The lawsuit alleges negligence in maintaining public walkways. She is seeking compensation for her medical expenses and other damages. The city has not yet responded publicly to the lawsuit.
San Diego Woman Sues After Tripping on Raised Handhole Cover at Embarcadero, Breaking Pelvis
San Diego, California – A woman has filed a lawsuit against the City of San Diego after tripping on a raised handhole cover at the Embarcadero, resulting in a broken pelvis. The incident occurred when the woman, identified as Jorja Austin, stumbled over the uneven surface, leading to her injury. She is seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
Details of the Incident
On the day of the accident, Austin was walking along the Embarcadero when she encountered the raised handhole cover. The uneven surface caused her to lose her balance and fall, sustaining a broken pelvis. Following the incident, Austin sought medical attention and has since been undergoing treatment for her injury. The lawsuit alleges that the City of San Diego was negligent in maintaining the public walkway, leading to the hazardous condition that caused her fall.
Legal Context
In California, property owners, including municipalities, are responsible for maintaining safe conditions on their premises. This includes ensuring that sidewalks and public walkways are free from hazards that could cause injury. Previous cases in San Diego have resulted in settlements for individuals injured due to poorly maintained public property. For instance, in 2018, a pedestrian received a $1 million settlement after tripping over a raised concrete edge in a crosswalk.
City’s Response
As of now, the City of San Diego has not publicly commented on the lawsuit filed by Austin. The case is currently under legal review, and further developments are expected as the legal process unfolds.
Background on Handhole Covers
Handhole covers are access points to underground utilities, such as electrical or communication lines. They are typically found in sidewalks and streets. When these covers are not properly maintained or are raised above the surrounding surface, they can pose tripping hazards to pedestrians. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure public safety and prevent such accidents.
Preventative Measures
To prevent similar incidents, it is crucial for municipalities to conduct regular inspections of public walkways and promptly address any hazards. Property owners should also be aware of their responsibilities in maintaining adjacent sidewalks and take necessary actions to repair any defects. Public awareness campaigns can further educate citizens on reporting hazardous conditions to local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a handhole cover?
A handhole cover is a removable lid that provides access to underground utilities, such as electrical or communication lines, typically found in sidewalks and streets.
Who is responsible for maintaining public walkways in San Diego?
In San Diego, property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks adjacent to their properties. The City of San Diego is responsible for maintaining public walkways that are not adjacent to private properties.
What should I do if I encounter a raised handhole cover?
If you encounter a raised handhole cover, report it to the local authorities or the city’s public works department to ensure it is addressed promptly and to prevent potential accidents.
Can I file a lawsuit if I am injured due to a raised handhole cover?
If you are injured due to a raised handhole cover, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit against the responsible party, such as the property owner or municipality, depending on the circumstances and local laws.
How can municipalities prevent accidents related to raised handhole covers?
Municipalities can prevent such accidents by conducting regular inspections of public walkways, promptly repairing any hazards, and ensuring that all handhole covers are level with the surrounding surface.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Embarcadero, San Diego, California |
| Injured Party | Jorja Austin |
| Injury Sustained | Broken pelvis |
| Cause of Injury | Tripping on a raised handhole cover |
| Legal Action | Lawsuit filed against the City of San Diego |
| Previous Similar Cases | Pedestrian received a $1 million settlement after tripping over a raised concrete edge in a crosswalk in 2018. |
Now Happening on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 23, 2025, 4:28 PM) A man was found dead after an hours-long standoff with San Diego police in Normal Heights, and AAA predicts 16.5 million holiday travelers in California. View on X
- @10News (December 23, 2025, 9:00 AM) San Diego prepares for a major holiday storm, a tense standoff occurred in Normal Heights, and a Walgreens employee seeks justice after an attack. View on X
- @CBS8 (December 24, 2025, 1:25 AM) With heavy rain expected, San Diego activates swiftwater rescue teams and distributes sandbags to protect residents during the incoming storm. View on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 23, 2025, 12:02 AM) The shooting death of an Imperial Beach man by sheriff’s deputies impacts the community, and a minor recovers after being hit by a suspected drunk driver in the same area. View on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 22, 2025, 3:38 AM) An SDPD officer hit by a DUI driver in Pacific Beach is recovering, the City plans $415K for a Balboa Park worker shuttle, and holiday weather updates are provided. View on X
- @OC_Scanner (December 19, 2025, 7:41 AM) SDPD engaged in an officer-involved shooting in Little Italy after a female suspect attempted to ambush officers, resulting in her death with no injuries to police. View on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 17, 2025, 9:45 PM) Deputies search for three men after a Lakeside shooting, an e-biker was shot by SDPD in Balboa Park while fleeing, and a SWAT standoff ended in Gaslamp. View on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 20, 2025, 12:25 AM) A sheriff addresses charges against a man for alleged child abuse involving a family member under 10, and a school board member reports her dog was poisoned in Sorrento Valley. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego County Operation Rescues 19 Victims from Sex Trafficking
Federal Judge Blocks California Policy on Student Gender Identity Disclosure
San Diego Padres Development Team Withdraws from Tailgate Park Deal
President Trump Intervenes in California’s Water Allocation
Escondido Faces New Lawsuit Over Harmony Grove Village South Project
Commercial Fire Breaks Out in Downtown San Diego
Federal Ruling Advances Class-Action Lawsuit on Parental Rights
San Diego Settles Konoa Wilson Case for $30 Million
California Court Rulings Expand Local Tax Authority
Rite Aid Shuts Down All Stores Nationwide Amid Financial Woes
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
