Accident Injuries and Premises Liability in Multi-Unit Buildings
Multi-unit buildings, such as apartments and condos, are home to millions of people across Maryland. These properties often include shared spaces like hallways, stairwells, elevators, and parking lots. While these conveniences make daily life easier, they can also be where serious accidents occur should hazards go unaddressed.
When someone is injured in a multi-unit building, determining liability is critical for securing compensation. When you have a conversation with a Clearwater criminal lawyer, they can share with you how to hold a responsible party accountable and how to access monetary compensation, when possible.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for an Injury?
To have a clear picture of who is responsible after an accident in a multi-unit building a variety of factors will need to be reviewed. Essentially, it depends on the circumstances of the incident and who had a duty to maintain the area in question.
- Owners of properties, landlords are typically responsible for maintaining the safety of common areas. They are required to conduct regular inspections and address hazards like broken lighting, uneven flooring, or malfunctioning security systems.
- Property management companies. Many landlords hire property management companies to handle day-to-day operations and maintenance. When these companies fail to repair issues they are tasked with addressing, they may share liability for injuries caused by their negligence.
- People who pay rent to use or reside in a space, tenants are generally responsible for the safety of their individual units. So, if someone is injured inside a tenant’s apartment or due to a hazard created by that individual, the tenant may be held liable.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for identifying the correct party to hold accountable in a premises liability claim. Accidents in apartments and condos are often caused by hazards that could have been prevented with proper maintenance or oversight. Some of the common issues include broken elevators, damaged stairways, and inadequate security. When injuries result from these hazards, victims have the right to seek compensation if negligence can be proven.
What Are Your Rights as a Tenant?
Maryland law requires landlords and property managers to provide safe and habitable living conditions. Tenants have the right to report hazards, request repairs, and file a claim if an injury occurs due to negligence. Tenants or visitors can pursue legal action to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you’ve been injured in a multi-unit building, determining liability is not always a fast and simple process. A skilled Clearwater lawyer can investigate the circumstances of your case, gather evidence, and identify the responsible party. Then, there may be the possibility of pressing criminal charges and accessing monetary relief.
Should you discuss your rights and options with a legal professional? Whether dealing with negligent landlords, property managers, or tenants, the attorneys at King Law Group have the skills and experience to fight for your rights. Don’t let someone else’s negligence leave you with the burden, have an attorney pave the way toward justice. Schedule your confidential consultation today.
