1 dead and 5 injured in Lower Manhattan parking garage collapse

On Tuesday afternoon, a parking garage on Ann Street in Lower Manhattan collapsed, resulting in the death of one person and injuring five others. The collapse caused cars to pancake on top of one another, sending rubble from the top deck down to street level. Videos and pictures from the scene showed the extent of the damage, with dust rising from the wreckage.

As premises liability attorneys in New York City, it is alarming to see accidents like this happen. It is the responsibility of property owners to ensure that their premises are safe for those who use them, including visitors and employees. The collapse of the parking garage raises questions about the safety measures in place, maintenance of the structure, and whether there were any prior warnings of potential issues.

The building had open violations dating from 2003

The Buildings Department records indicate that the building had open violations dating back to 2003. It is essential to note that property owners have a legal obligation to address any violations promptly. It is not enough to file plans to correct them; they must take immediate steps to ensure that the building is safe for use. Failure to do so can result in injuries, fatalities, and costly litigation.

In this case, it is unclear whether the open violations contributed to the collapse. Still, the fact that there were violations that had not been remedied raises red flags. Investigations will determine the cause of the collapse and who is responsible for the injuries and death resulting from it.

The incident at the parking garage is a tragic reminder of the importance of regular inspections and maintenance of buildings. Property owners must prioritize safety and take measures to ensure that their premises are safe for use. Failure to do so can result in devastating consequences, including injuries, fatalities, and costly litigation.

Red more about the collapse in the New York Times