The apartment complex managers had no comment on the issue but the incident highlights the liability that apartment owners have for the upkeep and maintenance of their facilities. One resident of the apartment complex where the young girl was killed stated that it shouldn’t take an incident such as this to make sure a gate is in working order and any existing problems are fixed.
Any property owner, no matter the size of the complex or the number of residents, is responsible for the safety of their tenants as well as any guests that might enter their premises. Rental property must be in good repair, well maintained, safe and up to code. This liability even extends to situations that are not inherently dangerous or may not look unsafe to the naked eye, especially for those areas that children commonly frequent. Children may not know how dangerous these places really are. This was highlighted here when the gate fell upon the young girl.
If a rental property resident or guest is injured while on the rental premises, the owner may be held liable for damages caused by an unsafe or dangerous condition. If you have been injured, speak to a personal injury attorney to help determine the responsible party and hold them accountable for your suffering.
Source: WTSP.com,”Tampa girl dies after apartment gate falls on her,” Kathryn Bursch, 4/11/12.
