In New York City, property owners, including those of commercial and business buildings, have a legal responsibility to ensure their premises are safe. Unfortunately, many fail to meet this obligation, leading to accidents caused by hazardous conditions. These risks can result in serious injuries, whether they occur in a residential complex, an office building, or a retail space. If you’ve been injured due to unsafe premises, you may be entitled to compensation.
Can You Sue for Injuries in a Commercial Building?
To pursue a claim for injuries sustained in a building, you must prove that the property owner or responsible party knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to fix it. Common hazards include broken stairs, faulty elevators, collapsing ceilings, or slippery floors—frequent issues in high-traffic business and commercial properties. Evidence like maintenance logs, photos, surveillance footage, and witness accounts can help support your case.
Identifying Responsible Parties
Premises liability cases in commercial settings can involve multiple parties. In addition to the property owner, liability may extend to management companies, maintenance contractors, or even tenants who rent the space. For example, a retailer might be held responsible for failing to address spills that cause injuries to shoppers. Determining accountability requires a detailed investigation into who had control over the unsafe condition.
Steps to Take After an Accident in a Business Property
If you’ve been injured in a commercial building or business property:
- Report the incident to the property owner, manager, or business operator.
- Take photos of the hazard and surrounding area, and gather contact information from any witnesses.
- Seek immediate medical attention and keep detailed records of your treatment.
- Contact a premises liability lawyer promptly to help preserve evidence and navigate the legal process.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Premises liability cases involving commercial properties often involve complex issues, such as determining whether safety regulations were violated or whether inspections were routinely conducted. An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the incident thoroughly, reviewing safety protocols and maintenance records.
- Secure critical evidence, such as inspection logs and surveillance video.
- Negotiate with insurers or corporate representatives for a fair settlement.
- Advocate for you in court if an agreement cannot be reached.
Premises Liability in Commercial and Business Properties
Commercial property owners and businesses in NYC are obligated to maintain a safe environment for employees, customers, and visitors. This includes keeping sidewalks, stairwells, elevators, and parking lots hazard-free. Negligence, such as failing to repair broken handrails, address structural defects, or provide adequate lighting, can lead to serious injuries. Injuries may also result from falling objects, defective equipment, or insufficient security measures. If you were injured in such a setting, you may have a valid claim.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
Under New York law, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a premises liability lawsuit. Failing to act within this timeframe can bar you from recovering compensation, so it’s important to move quickly.
If you’ve suffered injuries due to unsafe conditions in a commercial or business building, contact The Case Handler today. We specialize in helping clients throughout New York City secure the justice and compensation they deserve.