Man Decides To Lock Up His Entire Alley After His Neighbours Threatened To Sue Him If They Tripped And Fell There

On a normal day, the alleyway belongs to the city. Therefore, people have the same right to use the alleyway as they do a public sidewalk or street.

However, there are times when some individuals will tell you that you have no right or business being in an alleyway, even if it is public. The fact remains that you are free to wander up and down an alleyway as often as you wish unless it is private property or has a no-trespassing sign indicating that it might belong to someone, the county, or state authorities.

The narrator of today's story bought a house in his area, and he describes it as a really wonderful old red brick structure. When the OP was in the process of purchasing it, he discovered that the purchase also included the entirety of the alley.

The OP asked the realtor if this was true, and they confirmed it. The OP didn't fully believe them, so he went to the courthouse to double-check, and he confirmed it to be true.

The OP proceeded to buy the house and met some of the neighbors as well. He made a joke about charging them rent to use his alley, but they reacted strongly.

When winter came, this same neighbor told the OP to plow the alley every time it snowed because he owned it and was responsible for it. Well, the OP did, and he went further to lock it down, which riled up the neighbors.

The headline

The OP's not looking at starting a war so he just let it blow over

OP hired some local contractors and had them build a gate at the entrance of the alley

The Psychology of Conflict Avoidance

This man's decision to lock up his alley indicates a classic example of conflict avoidance, a common behavioral response when faced with perceived threats. Studies in conflict resolution highlight that individuals often prefer to remove themselves from potentially confrontational situations rather than face them head-on.

According to the National Institutes of Health, avoidance can lead to short-term relief but often exacerbates long-term issues, as unresolved conflicts tend to escalate over time.

While this strategy may provide immediate comfort, it can also foster resentment and escalate tensions with neighbors.

OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the AH:

I may be the AH because I've decided to bar all my neighbors from using an alley I own because they threatened me with a lawsuit.

The Reddit post got more than a thousand comments and here are a bunch of them

Limiting the ability by blocking it off

The OP blocked the access to the hazard

The fear of legal repercussions plays a significant role in this man's decision-making process. Research on fear-based responses indicates that individuals often overestimate the likelihood of negative outcomes, leading to avoidance behaviors. For instance, Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist, states, "People often misjudge the risks they face, which can lead to irrational decisions aimed at self-protection." His insights can be explored further on his professional website jonathanhaidt.com. This aligns with findings that perceived threats can skew individuals' risk assessments, prompting them to take drastic measures to protect themselves.

They are used to doing that

They can easily get an easement judgment

They're acting entitled to something of the OP's

The Long-Term Effects of Avoidance Behavior

While locking up the alley might seem like a practical solution, it ultimately may not address the underlying issues with his neighbors. Psychological research illustrates that avoidance can perpetuate a cycle of conflict, as unresolved grievances linger and increase animosity.

Additionally, avoidance can lead to feelings of isolation, as individuals distance themselves from community interactions, which can further exacerbate anxiety and stress.

Glad to be an AH all day long

There's a good chance the OP could be sued

The neighbours picked up on his humor

To address this situation constructively, it may be beneficial for the man to engage in open discussions with his neighbors about the concerns that led to his decision. Establishing a dialogue can help clarify intentions and foster a sense of community, which is essential for resolving conflicts.

Utilizing conflict-resolution strategies, such as mediation or facilitated meetings, can also provide a safe space for all parties to express their concerns and work toward a mutually acceptable solution.

When someone threatened to sue the OP, he literally blocked access to everyone else's garage, and some Redditors say that it's because he doesn't want to sell them access rights. The OP made sure it was legal, and this was after he made jokes about being the "alley landlord" and "charging people rent" as soon as he moved into the neighborhood.

Some Redditors said the OP shouldn't be concerned if being "right" and "it is perfectly legal" are more important to him than getting scowled at every time he leaves his house. Still, he was declared not the AH.

Expert Opinion

This situation illustrates a common tendency to avoid conflict due to perceived threats, which can lead to isolation and further misunderstandings. Engaging with neighbors directly can often dissolve fears and foster a more cooperative atmosphere.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, while avoidance behaviors may offer temporary relief from conflict, they often lead to long-term complications.

Research emphasizes the importance of addressing issues openly and collaboratively to promote healthy community dynamics and reduce tensions.