Falls on staircases are among the most dangerous and preventable accidents in apartment buildings, workplaces, and public spaces throughout New York. When stairwells are poorly maintained, improperly lit, or lack required handrails, serious injury is only a step away. At Leitner Warywoda, we represent victims across NYC and Long Island who were injured on staircases due to landlord negligence, building code violations, or poor property maintenance.

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From fractures and torn ligaments to traumatic brain injuries, we understand the gravity of these accidents and fight to recover the compensation our clients need to heal and move forward.

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What Makes a Staircase Unsafe?

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Stairs in older New York buildings, especially those in rent-controlled apartments and walk-ups, often violate safety standards. Some of the most common causes of staircase falls include:

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• Loose or broken steps

• Missing or damaged handrails

• Inadequate lighting in stairwells

• Uneven step height or depth (code violations)

• Wet, icy, or slick stair surfaces

• Clutter or debris left on stairs

• Rotting wood or cracked concrete on outdoor steps

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If the property owner failed to address known safety hazards, they may be found liable for your injuries under New York’s premises liability laws.

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Who Is Liable for a Stairwell Fall?

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Responsibility for maintaining safe staircases typically lies with the property owner or manager—whether it's a landlord, commercial business, or public agency. In many cases, staircases must also comply with NYC building codes, including rules about riser height, handrail placement, and lighting.

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In your case, liable parties may include:

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• Residential landlords or superintendents

• Commercial building owners

• Co-op or condo boards

• Municipal entities (for subway or public building stairs)

• Third-party cleaning or maintenance contractors

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Leitner Warywoda conducts in-depth investigations to identify all responsible parties, document code violations, and obtain the evidence needed to build a strong legal claim.

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What Should You Do After Falling on Stairs?

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If you’re injured on a staircase in New York, your health comes first—but so does protecting your claim:

1. Call 911 or seek medical care right away

2. Take photos of the stairwell, including any visible hazards

3. Get witness contact information if anyone saw your fall

4. Report the incident to the property manager or building staff

5. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer quickly

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Don’t assume the property owner will take responsibility—they often won’t unless a legal team forces the issue.

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Call Leitner Warywoda for Help After a Stairwell Fall

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If you were hurt on stairs in a New York apartment, office, or commercial property, you need a law firm with experience, resources, and grit. Leitner Warywoda has helped countless fall victims across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Long Island recover the compensation they deserve.

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Call us today for a free consultation. You won’t pay a cent unless we win your case.

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