Accidents Can Happen at Home

According to the National Multifamily Housing Council, just under 19 million American households rent apartments, with more than half living in older apartment buildings. Apartments are where 37 percent of American renters call home. For many people, when at home, there is an inherent anticipation of safety. Home should be where you are able to relax and feel safe. You have probably even taken precautions to remain safe, such as locking your doors and purchasing fire extinguishers. 

Unfortunately, just because you take home safety seriously, does not mean your landlord does. Even if your living space is safe, your shared or common community spaces within your complex may not be. An Illinois accident attorney can provide you with legal guidance and support if you were injured in one of these common areas.

The Dangers of Neglected Playgrounds

It is quite common to see apartment or condo complexes with playgrounds that look like they have not been attended to in years. Perhaps it was an oversight, or maybe they are not meeting their budget. No matter the reason, these neglected playgrounds are the responsibility of your landlord. They put people of all ages at risk for injuries such as:

• Broken bones
• Broken teeth
• Hand and finger injuries
• Tetanus
• Sprains and strains
• Puncture wounds

Playground safety is of extreme importance. If you or your child has been injured on a playground in a multi-family living complex, reach out to a seasoned Illinois accident lawyer who can help you pursue a claim for fair compensation. 

Unsafe Swimming Pools

Many apartment or condo complexes have swimming pools or hot tubs for residents and their guests to enjoy. While this is a nice amenity, if proper upkeep is not done, they can be a danger zone. Landlords are responsible for:

• Making sure the pools are surrounded by a fence
• Ensuring that the fence latches are in good working condition
• Complying with the Baker Pool Safety Act
• Removing electrical hazards such as improperly grounded electrical sockets or worn wire insulation 
• Maintaining chlorine levels
• Make all repairs in a reasonable amount of time

Pool goers who are injured or whose children are injured can benefit from meeting with an Illinois accident lawyer to talk about the injuries that took place and what they might be worth. 

All-Season Sidewalk Safety

Another commonplace for apartment and condo complex accidents to occur is simply on the sidewalks or common walkways. Landlords are responsible for keeping these areas free from any hazards that could pose a danger. In the winter, this means keeping them clear of snow and ice. At other times, cracks, dips, or uneven areas, significantly increase the risk of trip and fall injuries. 

Get Help from an Experienced Illinois Accident Attorney

Whether you were walking to your car one snowy morning, letting your child play on the playground, or taking a dip in the pool, you did not deserve the injuries you sustained. Now you are stuck with medical bills, pain and suffering, and perhaps even loss of income. Our team can hold your landlord or the company that owns your building liable for your injuries. We offer many convenient options for communication and can assist you by telephone, email, or video conferencing. Contact Sabuco, Beck, Hansen & Massino to schedule your legal consultation today.