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Who Is Responsible for Apartment Tenant Stairway Accident Injuries?

Stairway accidents can be surprisingly frequent and potentially severe in apartment buildings, especially when there is a failure to maintain them properly. But when an accident does occur, the crucial question that arises is – who holds responsibility for these injuries?

At Brockmeier Law Group, our attorneys are regularly asked this question. The answer is a bit more complicated than you might expect, involving a mix of both California state law and the specific circumstances of the case.

Landlord’s Liability in Stairway Accidents

Firstly, it is essential to understand that the landlord or property owner typically bears primary responsibility for injuries sustained on their rental properties. This liability arises from their legal duty to keep the premises safe, which inherently includes all common areas such as stairways. This duty exists because the landlord maintains control of the property, enabling them to carry out any necessary repairs or modifications.

Duty of Care in California

In California, legal obligations extend to everyone who owns or is in control of the property, whether businesses or private property owners. They are legally required to maintain it in a reasonably safe condition. This duty of care also includes a responsibility to conduct reasonable inspections of the property and maintain a safe environment before handing over control to tenants.

Role of Tenants in Stairway Accidents

While tenants do have a duty to warn visitors about dangerous conditions within their premises, California law generally does not place a legal duty on tenants to maintain or provide warnings about common areas such as stairways. This is because they do not have control over these areas.

Seeking Legal Help After a Stairway Accident in California

If you’ve been injured in a stairway accident in California, especially in an apartment or condominium, it’s crucial to know your rights and responsibilities under the law. At Brockmeier Law Group, our dedicated team of stairway accident lawyers in Los Angeles stands ready to guide you through this complex legal landscape.

Don’t navigate these complex legal waters alone. Contact us today for assistance from our Los Angeles premises liability lawyer.