When you’re in a building, you expect it to be safe. However, accidents do happen – sometimes because of the negligence of others. When ceilings collapse in a building, people can be severely injured and traumatized.

Victims of ceiling collapse accidents deserve for those responsible to be held accountable and to be compensated fairly. If you or someone you care about has been injured in a ceiling collapse, then it’s essential to understand what the law in New York says about it and what your options are legally. Read on to find out more.

What Causes a NY Ceiling Collapse?

There are many reasons why a ceiling in a building may collapse. The most common causes include:

• Water damage
• Poor construction
• Inadequate duct work
• Pest infestations, such as termites
• Failure to properly maintain the premises
• Failure to fix water leaks in a timely manner

Thankfully, there are often warning signs before a ceiling collapse that can let someone know there is danger. If this is the case in your situation, then immediate action should be taken. In fact, if you see these signs, let your construction manager or landlord know and make sure to have records regarding the attempts to inform those responsible.

Some things you may notice include:

• Cracking sounds that are unusual
• Plasterboard that is sagging
• Mold growth or damp patches
• Blisters in the ceiling

Alternatively, there may be no warning signs of a collapse. However, even if there were no signs before your ceiling collapse accident, it’s still important to discuss your case with an experienced attorney.

What Injuries Occur from a Ceiling Collapse in NY?

The injuries a person may experience as a result of a ceiling collapse can differ. Physical injuries that lead to economic losses can occur, making the injuries a problem that goes beyond simple physical healing.

Some injuries a person can suffer include:

• Loss of limbs
• Scratches, cuts, and bruises
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Paralysis
• Loss of enjoyment in life
• Spinal cord injuries
• Post-traumatic stress
• Nerve damage
• Soft tissue injuries
• Broken bones
• Death

Damages that occur as a result of a ceiling collapse can be both economic in nature and non-economic. Medical bills and loss of income can impact people just as easily as pain and suffering or emotional trauma as a result of the ceiling collapse.

You should ensure that you keep all records relating to your ceiling collapse and injuries sustained, then meet with an experienced attorney to discuss your case.

Who Is Liable in a New York Ceiling Collapse?

Every property owner and landlord is required to perform maintenance on their properties under New York construction codes. All maintenance of the buildings under the code is the responsibility of the owner.

If the owner of the property or the landlord is negligent or a repair is done negligently by a third party, then they may be responsible for the accident. Ceilings that were built poorly, have had minimum requirements met for repair, or created with defective materials can lead to issues that you may be able to get compensation for.

Construction companies, maintenance specialists, and contractors, as well as property owners and landlords, may be able to be held responsible in cases of ceiling collapse. It simply depends on the facts of your case. You need a premises liability lawyer to help you understand what parties may be liable in your case.

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