New York City property owners are required to maintain safe premises for tenants, guests, and those hired to work on the property. This includes implementing appropriate safety measures, installing proper lighting, and repairing anything broken on the property. Get the facts on one of the most common injuries that occurs on unsafe premises—stairwell injuries due to broken handrails.

THE DANGERS OF BROKEN HANDRAILS

Stair injuries are common and happen to people of all ages. According to a recent study, more than one million Americans get injured on stairs each year. The most common types of injuries sustained from stair falls include sprains, strains, scrapes, bruises, and broken bones.

Many stair injuries occur due to poor lighting, uneven steps, and broken handrails. Broken handrails are particularly dangerous since there is nothing for the victim to grasp onto to prevent their fall. Additionally, if a broken handrail contains metal, the jagged pieces may pierce a victim as they fall, potentially worsening their injuries.

Property owners have a responsibility to identify hazards on their property and promptly resolve any issues that arise. When this does not happen and a legal tenant or visitor becomes injured, the property owner may be held liable for damages in a premises liability claim.

If you have been injured on someone else’s unsafe property, our premises liability attorneys at Silbowitz, Garafola, Silbowitz, Schatz & Frederick are prepared to fight for your rights. We have represented countless clients who have received injuries due to a property owner’s negligence and have recovered millions of dollars in claims regarding premises accidents, elevator accidents, improper security, and more.