Watch out for Unsafe Stairs
With the privilege of property ownership, comes the responsibility to keep all areas that are used by visitors safe. This includes the obligation to fix problem areas and to conform to building codes.
It is unfortunate, but many property owners do not take their ownership responsibilities serious, allowing their property to fall into a state of disrepair. This can be especially dangerous when stairways are involved because serious injuries can result, mostly involving falls.
Falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for all people in the United States. It is the leading cause for people over the age of 60. In addition, small children are at a high risk for falls and account for approximately 30 percent of non-fatal falls.
Dangerous conditions involving stairs that could lead to falls include, but are not limited to:
- Bad lighting
- Poor design
- Poor construction
- Improper maintenance of the stairs
- Lack of or broken handrails
- Slick surfaces
Injuries that could result include broken bones, brain injuries, back injuries and soft tissue damage. Some individuals, especially older ones, may never recover from those injuries.
If you are injured on another person’s property, you may be eligible to receive compensation for the damages you suffered. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case and where the accident took place, a personal injury claim can be filed on the basis of premises liability law. With the help of an experienced personal injury attorney from the law offices of Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, you can file your claim successfully.
Under premises liability law, a property owner responsible for the safety and health of their guests can be held liable for injuries that occur on their property. In order for premises liability to apply, these essential elements must be met:
- The defendant is the owner of the property
- You were an invited guest, visitor, or patron of the premises
- There is evidence of negligence or some other wrongful act
Have you or a loved one been injured due to an unsafe stairway? If so, contact the personal injury law offices of Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi – located in Fort Lee, New Jersey and New York City.
You may have a cause of action against the property owner for your injuries and we will help you recover for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Contact our law offices, and discuss your case with one of our attorneys.
