Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer - Article
Porch Collapse: The Risk Factors
The sudden collapse of a porch, deck, or balcony is a rare occurrence. When it does happen, however, the results can be tragic. For example, a porch collapse that occurred in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood in 2003 killed 13 people and injured dozens more. Chicago personal injury lawyers Friedman & Bonebrake are dedicated to assisting the victims of serious accidents such as porch collapse.
Causes of Porch Collapse
Architects and other experts in the field have identified certain risk factors associated with the collapse of large structures. These factors include:
Overoccupancy: It is important for property owners to know how much weight porches or decks can hold, and make sure they are never overloaded.
Wooden building materials: Wood rots more quickly than many other materials. Porches, fire escapes, and all other large structures should ideally be reinforced with steel, concrete, or other sturdy building materials.
Old age: Older buildings can be dangerous for two reasons. First, it is likely that wood has rotted, bolts have rusted, and soil under the foundation has eroded over time. Additionally, current safety regulations were not in effect in previous years. Any older building should be carefully checked by a licensed safety inspector before being used.
Porch Collapse and Liability
Property owners have a legal responsibility to provide reasonable safe conditions for their guests. This can include:
- Having a home or other establishment inspected before inviting anyone in
- Building any additions according to legal regulations
- Warning guests about any potential risks on the property
If a property owner fails to do any of the above, he or she could be held liable for any injuries caused by porch collapse on his or her property. This could make him or her responsible for victims’ medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
Contact Chicago Personal Injury Lawyers
If you have been injured in a porch collapse, contact Chicago porch collapse attorneys Friedman & Bonebrake at 312-466-8200.