A man who fell down a flight of stairs in his apartment building after the lights went out has received compensation for the injuries he suffered.

The man, who is in his 70s and had recently been widowed, was walking down the stairs from his apartment when the accident happened. As he reached the top of the last flight of stairs, the lights went out, leaving him in total darkness. The lights operated on a timer, whereas the lights in the other communal areas worked using sensors. Emergency lights that should have been illuminated when the main lights were off were not working.

He tripped on his way down the final flight of stairs and fell. He suffered fractures to his pelvis and a torn rotator cuff, and was admitted to hospital. After he was discharged, he was dependent on his only son to care for him.

His son sought legal advice and a claim was brought. An Immediate Needs Assessment showed that the man had significant care needs. Following negotiations, a settlement was agreed which will help to provide the care and support he needs, including help looking after his pet dog.