Trip and fall lawyers protect the rights of clients injured by other people’s negligence. They represent your interests and help you obtain financial compensation. Here are a few ways apartment complex owner negligence causes trips and falls:
1. Neglecting To Clean Up Spills and Debris
Apartment owners need to keep their lobbies, hallways, and stairwells clean. Spills and debris accumulation in such public spaces cause slips and falls. Spilled drinks and food items create a slippery surface that can cause slip accidents. Boxes and trash may obstruct pathways and cause tripping hazards in an apartment. Landlords have a legal obligation to keep the premises safe for tenants. When someone trips and falls, they suffer minor bruises or severe fractures. A trip and fall lawyer gathers evidence like witness statements and surveillance footage. They established that the landlord was aware of the danger but failed to address it. The evidence helps pursue compensation for medical expenses, along with pain and suffering.
2. Failing To Remove Ice and Snow
Ice accumulation during winter creates slippery conditions around apartment complexes. The failure to remove ice and snow from entryways and sidewalks causes accidents. Landlords are responsible for salting icy surfaces and removing snow promptly. Slipping on icy surfaces can cause fractures, sprains, or head trauma. Your lawyer provides expert testimony on acceptable maintenance practices during winter months. This information helps establish apartment owner liability so you can obtain compensation for damages.
3. Failing To Fix Broken Steps
Poor step maintenance leads to wobbly stairs, loose railings, or uneven surfaces. Property owners need to conduct regular inspections to address maintenance issues. Failing to fix broken steps makes them liable for the injuries caused to tenants. A misstep on a broken stair can cause tripping and severe bruises. When gathering evidence, lawyers may speak to other residents facing similar issues in the apartment. Apartment maintenance records and photographs of the broken steps help establish a strong case. Step accidents can result in full or partial disability that interferes with your job performance. For severe injuries, your lawyer helps you obtain the resources you need to recover.
4. Failing To Warn About Hazards
Failure to put hazard warning signs in buildings contributes to trip and fall accidents. If a tenant unknowingly walks into an unsafe area, they may risk becoming injured. Landlords need to provide clear warnings for cluttered walkways, uneven surfaces, and wet floors. Inconsistent and unclear warnings cause confusion and accidents in common areas. Failing to put warnings about areas that are being cleaned may cause residents to be unaware of wet floors. A wet floor can cause slipping and serious injuries resulting from their fall. Tenants need to be informed about ongoing repairs, furniture placements, and obstructed pathways. Poor marking of emergency exits can also cause tripping hazards during an evacuation.
5. Failing To Maintain Stairways Properly
Poorly maintained staircases are characterized by structural damages, loose handrails, and inadequate lighting. A dimly lit stairwell can lead to a misstep that may cause a severe fall. A broken handrail causes you to lose balance when using the stairwell. Structural damage makes the step heights inconsistent, increasing the risk of tripping and falling.
6. Failing To Address Damaged Tiles and Carpets
Worn carpets and damaged tiles in apartment buildings may cause trip and fall accidents. Loose tiles can shift underfoot and cause residents to slip. A frayed carpet may catch on your shoes, causing you to lose your balance and fall. Your landlord is responsible for maintaining the apartment’s carpet and flooring. If they do not and you are injured as a result, seek compensation from a lawyer in your area.
Learn More About Trip and Fall Lawyers
A trip and fall lawyer can help protect your rights following apartment accidents. Your lawyer covers indoor, outdoor, public, and private property accidents. Contact a reputable slip and fall lawyer to learn more about their services.
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