Las Vegas Inadequate Maintenance Lawyer
Inadequate maintenance can create hazardous conditions that lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
Common Causes of Accidents Due to Inadequate Maintenance
Neglecting routine maintenance commonly results in the following hazards:
Slip and Fall Hazards
Slippery floors from leaks, spills, or polished surfaces without warning signs can lead to serious falls. Damaged flooring or loose carpeting also contributes to such incidents and a Las Vegas slip and fall lawyer can help.
Broken Staircases or Handrails
Poorly maintained stairs, missing steps, or loose handrails can cause dangerous falls, especially in high-traffic areas.
Elevator or Escalator Malfunctions
Faulty maintenance of elevators or escalators can result in severe injuries, such as entrapments or sudden stops.
Falling Debris
Neglected ceilings, walls, or fixtures may deteriorate over time, leading to falling debris that can cause head trauma or other injuries.
Insufficient Lighting
Dim or broken lighting in parking lots, hallways, or stairwells can increase the risk of accidents by limiting visibility.
Electrical Hazards
Exposed wiring or malfunctioning electrical systems can result in fires, electrocutions, or shocks.
Swimming Pool Dangers
Inadequately maintained pool equipment, slippery decks, or improper chemical use can lead to injury or drowning. Consult one of our swimming pool injury lawyers in Las Vegas for a free consultation.
Liability for Accidents Caused by Inadequate Maintenance
Determining liability for maintenance-related accidents in Las Vegas hinges on proving negligence. However, the following parties are typically to blame:
Property Owners
Property owners have a legal duty to ensure their premises are safe for visitors and occupants. If they fail to address known hazards or conduct regular inspections, they may be liable for injuries caused by their negligence.
Landlords
In rental properties, landlords are responsible for maintaining common areas, such as hallways, staircases, and parking lots. Tenants who report hazards must have their complaints addressed promptly. Failure to do so places liability on the landlord.
Business Owners
Businesses like casinos, hotels, or retail stores must ensure customer safety by addressing maintenance issues. For instance, failing to clean up spills or repair broken fixtures can result in liability for resulting accidents.
Maintenance Companies
If a third-party maintenance company is contracted to perform upkeep but fails to address hazards, they may be partially liable.
Nevada Laws on Inadequate Maintenance
Under Nevada’s comparative negligence law, liability can be divided among multiple parties. Victims can recover compensation if their “negligence was not greater than the negligence or gross negligence of the parties to the action against whom recovery is sought” (NRS 41.141). In other words, as long as they are 50% or less at fault, they can recover compensation, but their damages will be reduced proportionally to their percentage of fault.
How an Attorney Can Help
An experienced Inadequate Maintenance Attorney will investigate the case and gather crucial evidence like maintenance records and witness statements to build a strong claim. They will identify all liable parties and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. If a settlement cannot be reached, they can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. Attorneys also know how to navigate Nevada’s comparative negligence law, ensuring liability is accurately assigned to maximize your recovery. With a lawyer’s knowledge and experience on your side, your rights are protected and the responsible parties will be held accountable.