Don’t Settle For Less

Don’t Settle For Less

Ceiling Collapse in Brooklyn Injures Two

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2018 | Premises Liability

A ceiling collapse in Brooklyn left two individuals seriously injured earlier this month. The pair were inside an apartment at a New York City Housing Authority property located in Crown Heights when a portion of the ceiling fell. Both of the victims were struck by falling debris. They were assessed at the accident scene and then transported to a nearby hospital by emergency responders.

While the extent of their injuries is unknown, they appear to have suffered what authorities classified as “serious” but “non-life-threatening” injuries. Typical injuries sustained in ceiling collapses in New York City by victim are head injuries, facial lacerations, arm and leg fractures.

Secondary health concerns also arise when ceiling cavities are opened by collapses. Exposure to mold, hazardous building materials, and pest waste can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions and infections.

Unfortunately, stories like this are not uncommon. There are privately owned and NYCHA properties that are notorious for their substandard living conditions. In addition, the length of time between when a problem is reported and when it is rectified is often considerably longer than most people would consider appropriate. Often a repairperson arrives and places a patch or temporary repair over the damaged ceiling. The incident is then logged and residents must wait months for actual repairs.

Whether NYCHA and private owners does take safety complaints seriously is of no consolation to residents who must wait months before their homes become livable again.

Apartment building owners have a legal responsibility to maintain their properties and make timely repairs when necessary. If individuals are injured because of unsafe living conditions or exposure to a known hazard, the property owner whether it is NYCHA or a private owner should be held financially liable for any injuries residents or their guests sustain as a result of their neglect.

If you’ve been hurt in an accident at a NYCHA or private apartment complex, contact the experienced New York City apartment complex accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel. Call 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 for your free consultation today.

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