Liability in Slip and Fall Accidents Caused by Broken Handrails
From poor structural integrity to dim lighting, the reasons why people get injured in slip and fall accidents are often preventable and inexcusable. Had the person responsible for the property done his or her due diligence in keeping the premises safe, chances are, no one would get hurt. But, sometimes property owners fail to do so. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident caused by broken handrails, you can file a lawsuit to recover damages. An experienced slip and fall lawyer at Chanfrau & Chanfrau in Daytona Beach, FL will help you receive proper restitution for your injury.
An Overview of Broken Handrail Accidents
Those who have survived broken handrail accidents understand that broken bones are just part of the suffering. Beyond serious injury, which is often permanent, there are emotional and financial problems to consider. You may be unable to continue or find work as a result of your injury. Consequently, you may suffer from depression, anxiety, anger, and post-traumatic stress.
When you visit a business, store, or home, there is a reasonable expectation that you will not suffer catastrophic injury on a staircase. However, if the responsible party failed to maintain a safe handrail, they can be held liable for any injury you suffer as a result of that negligence. If a broken handrail causes you to fall and get injured, you could receive substantial compensation to cover your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Causes of Broken Handrail Accidents
Most of the time, broken handrail accidents result from negligence on the part of the property owner, property manager, landlord, or other party responsible for keeping the property safe. Common neglected problems include:
- Broken handrails: A fractured handrail that has not been fixed can give way to the smallest amount of pressure. The person walking up or down the stairs will invariably lose their balance and, sometimes, fall down or over the side of the stairs.
- Missing handrails: Sometimes there are no handrails at all. It is difficult to go up or down the stairs safely without the support of a handrail.
- Poor structural integrity: As time wears on, so do structures. The materials used for the handrail need to be strong. If a handrail begins to show signs of wear, it needs to be replaced to ensure everyone’s safety.
- Inadequate lighting: It is easy to lose your balance if you cannot see where you are going. Stairwells that have dim or no lighting are more likely to cause serious falls.
Responsibility for Broken Handrail Accidents
More often than not, the property owner will be held legally responsible for injuries sustained on his or her property due to premises liability law. However, a property that is leased may not be the responsibility of the owner, but instead of the lessee. The premises liability lawyers at Chanfrau & Chanfrau will thoroughly comb through the evidence to identify the negligent party and hold them legally responsible for your injuries.
Contact Us to Learn How We Can Help
If you have slipped and fallen due to a faulty handrail, the accomplished and compassionate team of personal injury lawyers at Chanfrau & Chanfrau can help. We will make certain you receive full compensation for the pain and suffering you have endured. To find out more, contact us online today.