When people move into a new apartment, they expect the premises to be safe and secure from potential dangers. For the most part, landlords keep up their end of the bargain by tending to the grounds, conducting maintenance, and making sure everything in an apartment complex is working properly for their tenants. Unfortunately, not every apartment building stacks up against New York City’s housing laws.
If you have suffered an injury in your apartment complex, you may be wondering what options you have. You need to consult with an experienced New York City personal injury attorney to properly understand your options and get the necessary support to fight for your legal rights.
Injuries in an Apartment Complex
New York City is known for many things, including its old, historic buildings. With so many different types of apartment buildings in close proximity to each other, there’s no shortage of properties that are poorly maintained. It’s unfortunate that many landlords try to skirt by the city’s housing laws by making their properties appear safe while several potential dangers lurk in the foundation, plumbing, or walls.
Among the possible accidents someone can have in a New York City apartment complex, some of the most common include:
- Slip-and-falls: If maintenance workers don’t wipe up the floors after cleaning, or if there is a leak in the ceiling, it can be very dangerous for tenants who have to go up and down flights of stairs in New York City apartments. A slip-and-fall accident can result in broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or even death.
- Lead poisoning: While lead has been banned in household paints since the 1970s, some older buildings still have this dangerous metal in their walls. Even if your landlord has painted over the lead-filled areas, it only takes a small amount of exposure for you to start suffering from the possible hazards.
- Inadequate security: Every landlord has the duty to keep his or her premises secure from possible criminal activity. But if your landlord hasn’t gotten around to fixing that broken lock, faulty window, or any other necessary security measure, someone could break into your apartment and commit robbery or assault.
- Elevator accidents: If your building’s elevator has not been checked by an inspector regularly, it opens the possibility of a tragic accident due to a malfunction.
Who Is at Fault?
It is the responsibility of apartment owners to ensure the reasonable safety of all their tenants. If they fail to properly maintain the premises and a renter sustains a serious injury, that owner is liable. When you are involved in a serious accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to seek financial compensation that covers any medical expenses, lost income, and even emotional pain that resulted from the injury.
There are many different hazards that can be found in a New York City apartment complex, and if property owners neglect even one of them, it’s important to hold them accountable. To get the help you need to fight for your rights and receive what you deserve, you need a talented New York apartment injury attorney.
Work with Experienced New York Premises Liability Attorneys
At Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP, we understand that nobody wants to feel unsafe in their own home. No one should have to experience the long-lasting consequences of a serious accident just because their landlord wanted to save a couple dollars or wasn’t vigilant enough. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complex process of premises liability litigation to get the compensation you need. Don’t hesitate to get started now on the path to your recovery. Call our office at 800-223-2814 to learn more.
