Landlord Caused Injures, Refuses to Pay

Posted in Accident & Injury on September 30, 2013

We all take steps to be safe. Unfortunately, you can be injured anywhere. Harm can come to you while you drive down the road, walk down the sidewalk and even in your own home.

Some cases are clear-cut as to who caused your injury; but if you’re hurt in your own house, can another party be at fault? This may be the case if your landlord has failed to do his or her job properly.

Your landlord has a legal responsibility to keep the dwelling you live in safe and free from causing you harm. Your job is to report anything that may be an issue. This can include broken steps, cracked tile, eroding floors or ceilings and many other dangers including leaks and electrical defects. Just remember, no matter how small the problem may seem, it is important to submit a notice to make repairs in writing.

Once you’ve notified the landlord, it is then their job to ensure all problems are fixed and you are no longer in any danger. They must make any repairs within a reasonable amount of time after receiving notice. Their failure to do so can make them liable for any injuries you do incur due to an unrepaired hazard. Tenants may be compensated for wage loss, doctor and hospital visits, physical therapy, prescription drug costs and other medical expenses.

There may be times when repeated attempts to notify the landlord are ignored and finally, the feared accident takes place. In other cases, the landlord does not issue any warning to the tenants about a possible source of danger. In both examples, the landlord may be found liable for any resulting injury if an accident occurs. If you or someone you love has been injured due to the negligence of a landlord, you may be entitled to compensation for their carelessness. Speak to an experienced attorney immediately to help you recover your costs.

To learn more about personal injury law, I encourage you to watch the video above and to explore our educational website at www.elkandelk.com. If you have legal questions, please call us at 1-800-ELK-OHIO. I welcome your call.

– Ryan M. Harrell