Can I Sue My Landlord in Texas for an Injury on Defective Steps?

Loose steps and missing handrails are a common complaint for many renters. While you expect these issues to be resolved in short order, the reality is that landlords are not always prompt when it comes to repairs. This can lead to serious injuries if someone trips and falls.

While it is true that a property owner is not automatically responsible for every injury that occurs in their buildings, they do owe an obligation to tenants in many scenarios. If you were hurt and have questions on whether you can sue your landlord in Texas for an injury on defective steps, now is the time to speak with a dedicated premises liability attorney.

The Ability to Sue a Landlord

In order to recover financial compensation following a defective steps injury, there must be evidence that the property owner failed to meet their obligation to protect their tenants from harm. It is up to the owner to make reasonably certain the property is in good repair. This includes not only inspecting common areas for hazards but also dealing with them when they are discovered.

The process of meeting this obligation starts by following city and state building codes. If the landlord allows shoddy, improper construction to take place, they can be liable if there is a structural failure.

Many of the incidents involving damaged stairwells result from ongoing wear and tear. This is a natural outcome, but one that a landlord should be prepared for. When handrails become loose or steps begin to break, it is their obligation to warn residents, close off dangerous areas, and make repairs as soon as possible.

What Damages Are Available?

If a Texas landlord is successfully sued for an injury on defective steps, they could be liable for a wide range of monetary damages. These can include the out-of-pocket costs faced by the injured party, as well as any of the physical and emotional suffering they also experienced.

Medical Bills

Treating the injuries that result from a fall can be a long, costly process. The good news is that a successful personal injury lawsuit could cover the expense of treatments like surgical procedures, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and hospitalization.

Lost Wages

One of the frustrating aspects of suffering a serious injury is the inability to earn a living. When a person is forced to miss work while they recover, it can have dramatic consequences for their finances, especially for significant injuries that leave someone unable to maintain their employment for months at a time. A successful settlement could recoup these lost wages.

Pain and Suffering

Serious injuries often result in debilitating physical pain, and because these sensations would not have occurred but for the carelessness of the landlord, it is only fair that financial compensation is available. The value of these claims often scales with the amount of a person’s medical bills.

Discuss a Defective Steps Lawsuit Against Your Landlord

If you were hurt on defective apartment building steps in Texas, your landlord might be on the hook for your damages. That does not mean pursuing justice will be easy. You deserve legal counsel that will aggressively pursue compensation on your behalf. Reach out as soon as possible for a private consultation.