If you reside in a building owned by the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), it’s important to understand that the entity has a legal duty to provide safe living conditions that are free from reasonably foreseeable hazards. Unfortunately, there is a wide array of issues in Manhattan NYCHA buildings that can result in serious injuries to residents and their guests. Many of the dangerous conditions that arise in these properties are due to carelessness and failure to make repairs. If you were hurt due to the NYCHA’s negligence, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim to recover your damages.
Below are five common issues that can lead to Manhattan NYCHA accidents and injuries:
1. Lack of Maintenance and Repairs
One of the biggest problems in Manhattan NYCHA buildings is the lack of maintenance and repairs. If necessary and prompt repairs are not made to dangerous conditions, accidents can occur that lead to serious injury. Some of the issues related to lack of regular upkeep that can cause Manhattan NYCHA accidents may include the following:
- Water damage or leaks
- Leaky or collapsing ceilings
- Uneven flooring
- Cracked sidewalks
- Poorly maintained walkways
- Broken staircases or hand railings
Importantly, if the NYCHA knew — or should have known — about an unsafe condition and failed to make timely repairs, it could be held liable for any accidents that occur as a result.
2. Plumbing Issues
Plumbing issues in NYCHA properties can cause sewage backups and other health hazards, as well as pipes to burst. This can lead to accidents that pose a serious risk of injury to occupants and their guests. Burst pipes can also cause flooding, as well as fires or electrocution if the water comes into contact with electrical outlets.
3. Defective Elevators
Thousands of Manhattan NYCHA residents rely on elevators to navigate their buildings, especially the elderly and those with disabilities. However, due to a lack of maintenance, elevator malfunctions have become increasingly common in these properties. Issues that lead to NYCHA elevator accidents can include the following:
- Doors slamming shut
- Elevators moving while doors are open
- Sudden drops
- Jerking movements
- Misleveling
- Speed malfunctions
- Excessive gaps
Critically, many NYCHA elevator accidents can be prevented with adequate inspections and timely repairs. The NYCHA may be held liable for any elevator accident injuries that arise as a result of its failure to make repairs or conduct proper maintenance.
4. Electrical and Fire Hazards
Outdated electrical systems and poor wiring in Manhattan NYCHA buildings can increase the risk of power surges and electrical fires. The fire injury risks associated with these types of hazards can be significant — especially when a building does not have a working sprinkler system, functioning fire alarms, or blocked safety exits. A victim who suffered burn or smoke inhalation injuries due to the NYCHA’s negligence may be eligible to recover their damages in a personal injury action.
5. Structural Issues
Many Manhattan NYCHA buildings are aging and suffer from various structural issues, including crumbling facades, ceiling and wall collapses, deteriorating staircases, uneven floors, broken handrails, and unstable balconies. These dangerous conditions can cause a wide range of debilitating injuries, or even fatalities when they are not repaired. If the NYCHA had actual or constructive notice of a structural issue and failed to remedy it, it may be held accountable for any injuries that arose as a result.
Contact an Experienced Manhattan NYCHA Accident Attorney
If you were injured in a Manhattan NYCHA accident due to the entity’s negligence, you may be entitled to file a premises liability lawsuit. These types of claims are often complex and it’s vital to have a Manhattan NYCHA accident attorney by your side who can guide you through the process. The Dearie Law Firm, P.C., has handled premises liability matters for over three decades, including cases against the NYCHA, and is committed to achieving the best possible results in each unique matter. Contact us today for a consultation.