Potential Premises Liability @Gelman

GW opened the new stairway entrance to Gelman Library, trumpeted here.  Unfortunately, they forgot to install lights. Here's what the staircase looks like on a rainy night:

I'm not sure how much it costs to light this staircase.  However, in Bocchichio v. MDA Contracting, Inc., PAS-L-3755-09 (Passaic County Super. Ct., NJ, 2011), the victim of an unlit staircase slip and fall negotiated a $750,000 settlement.  Likewise, in Almanzar v. 469 West 163rd Realty, Inc., 117007/94 (NY Sup. Ct., 1996), the victim of an inadequately lit staircase was awarded $684,000 at trial, but settled for $600,000 during post-trial motions.  Perhaps GW should perform its own cost-benefit analysis.

In related news, if you are injured while on anyone's property, you may be entitled to cash money.  Contact an attorney to discuss your rights.