Staircase and stairwell collapses in New York City are rare but devastating accidents. Whether in an apartment building, office, subway station, or construction site, a sudden collapse can cause catastrophic injuries. Victims often suffer broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain damage, or even wrongful death.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our NYC personal injury lawyers have extensive experience holding negligent property owners, landlords, contractors, and businesses accountable for unsafe stairways. If you or a loved one was injured in a stair collapse anywhere in New York City, we can help you pursue maximum compensation.
Causes of Staircase Collapses in NYC
Stair collapses can occur in residential buildings, commercial properties, and construction sites throughout New York City. Common causes include:
- Faulty design or poor construction – Unsafe installation, unstable foundations, or defective stair materials.
- Building code violations – Failure to comply with NYC Building Code or OSHA safety regulations.
- Weak or rotting materials – Water damage, termite infestation, or rusted metal supports.
- Lack of maintenance & inspections – Neglected repairs, loose rails, or cracked steps.
- Overcrowding or structural overload – Too many people or excessive weight on a stairwell.
- Construction site hazards – Incomplete or temporary stairways without proper railings.
Even small issues like a cracked step or loose handrail can escalate into a dangerous collapse if ignored.
Types of Stairwell Collapses
- Total Collapse – The entire stairway gives way, often causing multiple victims to fall and suffer life-threatening injuries.
- Partial Collapse – A single stair or section breaks, leading to falls that cause head trauma, fractures, or spinal injuries.
Common Injuries From Stair Collapses
Victims of NYC stairway accidents often face severe, long-term consequences such as:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions
- Severe lacerations, internal bleeding, or organ damage
- Soft tissue injuries and chronic pain
- Wrongful death in fatal collapse cases
These injuries may require extensive hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care — leaving victims with overwhelming medical expenses and lost income.
Who Is Liable for a Stair Collapse in New York City?
Under New York premises liability law, multiple parties may share responsibility for a stair collapse, including:
- Property Owners & Landlords – Required to maintain safe stairways in apartment buildings and commercial properties.
- Property Managers & Businesses – Liable for failing to inspect or repair hazards.
- Contractors & Builders – Responsible if defective construction or shoddy workmanship caused the collapse.
- Designers & Architects – If unsafe designs or non-compliant plans contributed to structural failure.
- Construction Site Supervisors – For failing to provide secure, code-compliant temporary stairs.
A thorough investigation is essential to identify all liable parties and ensure full compensation.
Proving Negligence in NYC Stair Collapse Cases
To win a New York stairwell collapse claim, your lawyer must prove:
- The property owner or responsible party owed a duty of care.
- They failed to uphold that duty by allowing unsafe conditions.
- That negligence caused the collapse and your injuries.
- You suffered damages such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
New York’s strict building codes governing stair design, railing requirements, and weight limits often play a key role in proving negligence.
Compensation Available to NYC Stair Collapse Victims
Victims of stairway accidents may recover damages for:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life
- Long-term care and rehabilitation costs
- Wrongful death damages for surviving families
- In rare cases, punitive damages against reckless property owners
Why You Need a New York City Staircase Collapse Lawyer
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame to victims. An experienced NYC personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the cause of the collapse
- Gather inspection reports, maintenance records, and witness testimony
- Identify all responsible parties under New York law
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
- Take your case to trial if necessary
At Greenstein & Pittari, we fight for maximum compensation so you can focus on recovery.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP?
- Local presence – Offices in Harlem, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County
- Proven results – Recognized by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers
- Bilingual services – Spanish, Russian, and more
- Our Fee Guarantee – No fee unless we win your case
- Client convenience – Free transportation to our offices; hospital and home visits available
- Trusted reputation – Hundreds of positive reviews from NYC clients
- Top-Rated, Award-Winning Lawyers – Best Lawyers & Super Lawyers
Our motto: “Don’t Be a Victim Twice.”
Contact an NYC Stair Collapse Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a New York City staircase or stairwell collapse, you should not have to bear the financial and emotional burden alone.
📞 Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP today at 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) to schedule your free consultation.
We represent clients across all five boroughs of New York City and the greater metropolitan area. Our attorneys are ready to fight for justice and the full compensation you deserve.