When living in an apartment, you expect your landlord to keep the property safe for you and your loved ones. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. If a landlord does not keep his or her property maintained at all times, serious accidents can occur. Read on to learn more about apartment accidents and what to do in the event of an injury.
What are the Most Common Causes of Apartment Accidents?
If a property is not thoroughly maintained at all times, serious accidents can occur. The most common apartment accidents are due to:
- Inadequate lighting: When a landlord fails to keep his or her premises well-lit, tenants may trip and fall over the cracked pavement, potholes, or other safety hazards that they may have otherwise avoided.
- Poor weather conditions: If you slipped and fell due to a landlord who neglected his or her duties to remove snow, ice, and other safety hazards within the legally acceptable timeframe, there is a good chance you will be entitled to financial compensation.
- Damaged flooring: Protruding nails, loose floorboards, and torn carpeting are all common causes of apartment accidents.
- Apartment pools: When negligent pool owners fail to install all necessary barriers, fences, and take other necessary safety measures, people are very often injured as a result. Landlords should always have “wet floor” and other hazard warning signs on hand.
- Broken smoke or carbon monoxide detectors: Landlords should always ensure their tenants have working alert systems because when they do not, people can be seriously injured.
- Staircases in disrepair: If a handrail is not properly installed or secured, it may break loose from its fittings. Those who have been injured as a result will generally have a valid personal injury claim.
How Long do I Have to File a Claim?
If you are injured in your apartment, your landlord may be held responsible. But, in order to take legal action, you will have to file your claim within a certain amount of time. In New Jersey, you will have two years from the date of the accident to file your personal injury claim. If you fail to file within two years, you will most likely lose your opportunity to recover the compensation you need and deserve to recover from your injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an apartment accident, you will need the help of an experienced personal injury attorney. Contact our firm today.
Contact our Experienced New Jersey Firm
If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.
