If you slip and fall in a rented apartment in New York, and the fall was caused by a hazardous condition the landlord or property management company failed ot address, you may be eligible to take legal action against them for your injuries. Please continue reading as we explore the circumstances in which you can hold these parties accountable for your damages and why connecting with our competent Westchester County Slip and Fall Accident Attorneys is in your best interest to fight for the justice you deserve.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Accidents at Rental Properties?
In New York, slip-and-fall accidents in apartments can occur due to various factors. Landlords and property management companies have a responsibility to maintain safe premises for their tenants and visitors. When they fail to uphold this duty of care, they can be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result of their negligence. This legal obligation is the result of premises liability laws. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with common hazards to ensure you remain alert and minimize the risk of injury. These hazards include, but are by no means limited to, the following:
- Wet floors
- Cracked or uneven sidewalks, stairs, or flooring
- Broken or loose tiles, carpets, or mats
- Damaged or missing handrails or railings
- Inadequate lighting
- Weather-related hazards (snow and ice) on walkways, parking lots, or entrances
- Exposed wiring or other tripping hazards
- Clutter in hallways or lobbies
- Lack of adequate signage
Can I Seek Compensation for an Accident in a Rented Apartment?
If you slip and fall in your New York apartment, it’s important to understand the circumstances in which you can hold your landlord liable for your injuries. As a general rule, you are responsible for maintaining a safe environemnt within your dwelling and are therefore liable for any hazards you create. For example, if you plug in a lamp and subsequently trip over the wire, your landlord would not be held responsible for any resulting injuries.
However, there are situations in which your landlord could be held liable for a slip-and-fall accident. If your landlord was aware of a dangerous condition within your apartment and failed to take reasonable steps to remedy it, they could be held accountable for any injuries you sustain. For instance, if your landlord knew that the flooring in your apartment was uneven and failed to repair it, they could be held liable if you tripped and fell as a result.
In addition, your landlord has a responsibility to maintain common areas within the apartment building. This includes hallways, stairwells, sidewalks abutting the property, and laundry rooms. If you slip and fall in one of these common areas due to hazardous conditions that your landlord knew or should have reasonably known about, they could be held liable for your injuries.
If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident in your apartment, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options. At Hausman & Pendzick, we are prepared to guide you through this complex process and fight for the justice you deserve. Connect with our firm today for more information.