Apartment building owners nationwide, including New York, must address all safety risks and ensure that occupants are reasonably safe. Hazards are particularly prevalent during winter months when icy and slippery walkways can cause serious injuries. The owners of an apartment complex in another state are facing a premises liability claim that was filed by a tenant who suffered slip-and-fall injuries.
According to the complaint, the tenant fell when he left the complex in the early morning of Nov. 16, 2018. The plaintiff alleges the incident occurred when he slipped on ice on the outside stairs of the complex. It is further alleged that the property owners failed to comply with their duty of care to maintain reasonable safety in the building.
It is alleged that the defendant failed to keep the stairs clear of accumulated ice and did not post warnings about the dangerous conditions. Noncompliance with building codes in the construction of the stairs is also alleged. The plaintiff seeks monetary compensation to cover current and future pain and suffering as the result of injuries to his right arm and knee, along with medical bills and lost wages.
Victims of similar accidents in New York will be wise to consult with an experienced premises liability attorney as soon as possible. It is always a good idea to do this while all the details are still fresh, and also to record all injury-related expenses and keep copies of bills. The lawyer can gather the necessary information, explain the process, and make sure the civil claim is filed within the statute of limitations.