Whether you’re shopping in a retail store or walking through the stairwell of your apartment building, the last thing you may expect is to become injured. However, if you are injured, it’s important to investigate the cause. Unfortunately, you may find that this was not just a simple accident and the harm you sustained could’ve been avoided if the landlord had ensured the building was up to code. As such, if you’ve been hurt due to building code violations, understanding what steps you can take is critical. The following blog explores what you should know about holding the negligent party liable and why you should connect with a Sacramento personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options during these complex times.
How Do Building Code Violations Contribute to Injuries?
Building codes exist to ensure the safety of those inside the premises and around the property. As such, if there is a violation, you’ll find that it can contribute to injuries. If the code had been met, it’s likely you would not have been hurt.
There are two main forms of building code violations – structural and safety violations. A structural issue generally refers to issues that affect the building as a whole, such as ensuring the materials used to build the home are up to standard, that the home was built by a licensed contractor, and fixtures like stairwells are safe. Safety codes are there to ensure matters like fire safety, sanitation, and adequate exits are in place.
How Can I Hold the Landlord Liable?
If you wish to hold a negligent landlord liable for the injury you sustained, it’s important to understand the steps you must take to do so. Generally, you’ll find that simply proving the violation existed is not enough to win this kind of case. You must also prove that the landlord knew or should have known about the violation. For example, if the landlord of an apartment building knows that a handrail is broken but does not take the necessary steps to prevent an injury from occurring, like blocking off the stairwell until they can have the issue repaired, they may be held liable for any injuries sustained as the result of the broken handrail.
Sustaining an injury can be incredibly upsetting, especially when you consider it could have been avoided if the building was up to code. As such, you can seek compensation for several damages, from hospital bills and lost wages to pain and suffering from the negligent landlord if you can prove their responsibility in the accident.
As you can see, there are several considerations you must make during these times. At the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes, our dedicated team understands how frustrating it can be to suffer at the hands of a negligent party, which is why we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for you. Contact us today to learn how we can guide you through these matters.