How to Bring An Injury Lawsuit For A Deck and Balcony Collapse?

Deck or balcony collapses can lead to devastating and often fatal injuries. In such cases, victims or surviving family members may be able to hold the liable parties accountable by bringing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit against the property owner, property manager, and/or the company that constructed the balcony. A successful claim could result in financial compensation for medical expenses, pain, and suffering, funeral costs, loss of income, and other damages caused by the collapse. Victims or their families need to seek legal advice as soon as possible to protect their rights and pursue justice for what has happened.

No amount of money can replace a life lost due to a deck or balcony collapse but taking legal action can help ensure that those responsible are held responsible and that similar tragedies are prevented in the future. To learn more about your legal options, contact a qualified personal injury lawyer today. With their help, you can seek the justice and financial compensation you deserve.

Premises Liability

When a deck or balcony collapses, the legal implications are serious. Owners of property must take reasonable steps to maintain, inspect and repair any dangerous conditions that could lead to such an incident. Furthermore, they must also provide adequate warning for any potentially hazardous situations. In cases where a deck or balcony collapse has occurred, it is often indicative of a failure on behalf of the owner to exercise reasonable care in ensuring safety from such events. Those affected by a collapse may be entitled to seek compensation if negligence can be proven in court. It is essential for those affected by an incident to contact an experienced premises liability lawyer right away to protect their rights and determine what course of action should be taken.

By taking prompt legal action, victims may increase their chances of being able to seek the compensation they deserve. Furthermore, it also helps ensure that negligent parties are held accountable for their actions and that such incidents are not repeated in the future. Seeking legal advice is the best way to ensure a positive outcome for those affected by a deck or balcony collapse.

It is important to note that premises liability law can vary from state to state, and each case should be considered on an individual basis. An experienced lawyer with the appropriate knowledge and expertise will be able to help guide victims through their claims and secure them the best possible outcome. If you have been affected by a deck or balcony collapse, do not hesitate to contact an experienced premises liability lawyer right away. They will help you protect your rights and ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

It is important to remember that premises liability claims can be complex matters, but with the right legal advice, victims can rest assured that they are in safe hands. An experienced lawyer will understand the intricacies of premises liability law and guide those affected through each step of the claim process. With their help, victims may have a better chance of receiving fair compensation for any losses or damage suffered because of a deck or balcony collapse.

By taking prompt action following an incident, victims can ensure that negligent parties are held accountable and that such accidents are not repeated in the future. If you have been affected by a deck or balcony collapse, it is essential to seek legal advice from an experienced premises liability lawyer. They will help protect your rights and ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact a qualified legal professional as soon as possible to discuss your options. A knowledgeable premises liability attorney will be able to review your case and advise you on the best course of action for pursuing financial compensation after such a traumatic event. By taking prompt action, victims have a better chance of receiving fair recompense for any losses or damage suffered due to a deck or balcony collapse. When searching for a legal representative, it is important to find someone with experience as a premises liability lawyer who can provide the guidance and support needed throughout the claims process.

Personal Injury Lawsuits in Balcony Cases

A personal injury lawsuit may be appropriate when an individual’s safety is compromised due to the negligence of a property owner. In cases involving balcony collapses, the owner of the property has a responsibility to ensure that it is properly maintained and safe for use. If this duty is neglected, and the balcony ultimately fails to result in injuries to those using it, they may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.

Such lawsuits seek to hold negligent parties responsible for their actions and provide compensation for damages incurred. It is important to seek legal counsel if you believe your injuries are a result of negligence on behalf of another party so that you can understand your rights and make informed decisions about any potential courses of action available to you.

Why do balconies and decks collapse?

The most common causes of balcony and deck collapses in New Jersey include structural failure, age-related deterioration, weathering, poor maintenance, and construction defects. Structural failure can be caused by overloading the structure beyond its capacity or a lack of adequate support from the walls beneath. Age-related deterioration is due to decay that occurs over time from exposure to elements such as rain, snow, sleet, and sunlight. Weathering can cause wood rot or corrosion on metal fasteners used in the structure’s construction. Poor maintenance includes failing to inspect and replace compromised railings, joists, and fasteners which are essential for providing stability to the structure.

Finally, construction defects may involve mistakes made during construction that were not identified during inspections or did not meet code requirements. These defects are often the result of using poor-quality materials or improper installation. By recognizing and addressing these common causes of balcony and deck collapses in New Jersey, property owners can take action to help ensure their safety and longevity.

By understanding the risks associated with balconies and decks, residents can take measures to combat them. Regular inspection of the balcony and deck railings, joists, fasteners, flashing, and other components is essential for preventing potential collapses due to weathering, aging, or structural failure. All components should be thoroughly inspected at least once a year – particularly if they have been installed within the last 10 years – so that any signs of deterioration or damage can be identified before it becomes a problem.

Additionally, all materials and fasteners should be of the highest quality and installed by the state building code to minimize the risk of construction defects. With these preventative measures, property owners can help ensure that their balconies and decks remain safe for years to come.

By taking these steps, residents can rest assured that they are doing all they can to protect themselves from balcony or deck collapses caused by common issues in New Jersey. It is essential to take proper preventive measures when it comes to maintaining these structures as failure to do so can lead to devastating consequences. As such, regular inspections and maintenance are key components of preventing a tragic accident from occurring due to structural instability or other causes.

Keeping balconies and decks properly maintained is not only a matter of safety but also a matter of smart ownership. With the proper precautions in place, residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their balconies and decks are safe and secure.

By understanding the most common causes of balcony or deck collapses in New Jersey, property owners can take action to protect themselves and their families from potential accidents due to structural failure, age-related deterioration, weathering, poor maintenance, or construction defects.

Regular inspections combined with high-quality materials and installation are key components in ensuring that these structures remain safe for years to come. By taking precautionary steps now, property owners can help ensure that they can enjoy the beauty and convenience of their balconies and decks without fear of a collapse.

How often do these types of accidents occur?

In New Jersey, the frequency of deck and balcony collapse accidents has been increasing significantly in recent years. According to data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were 24 reported nonfatal incidents involving decks or balconies that collapsed between 2008 and 2019—an average of two reports per year. In 2020 alone, 11 reports were filed with the CPSC’s Deck Collapse Database, more than double the average rate over the previous 12-year period. Many of these accidents occurred during summer months when decks and balconies are used most often for outdoor entertainment and leisure activities.

Unfortunately, the number of fatal incidents is also on the rise. Between 2011 and 2018, five people in New Jersey lost their lives in deck or balcony collapses. In 2019, a family of three was killed when their deck suddenly gave way during a Fourth of July party.

It’s important to take steps to ensure that your deck is safe and secure: inspect it regularly for signs of wear and tear, replace any broken parts, and make sure the support beams are properly secured. Taking these precautions can help prevent tragic accidents from occurring in your home.

By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, property owners can help reduce the number of deck collapse accidents in New Jersey.

Examples of Collapses

In October 2020, a deck collapse in New Jersey stunned the community as six people fell 12 feet to the ground due to a structural failure. The incident took place in Brick Township and the injuries sustained were serious, but thankfully not life-threatening. In that same month, an 8-person balcony collapsed in Pompton Lakes while they celebrated a birthday party; remarkably, no one was injured.

In July 2019, several people were injured when a third-story balcony suddenly gave way at a beachfront rental property in Wildwood Crest. Six victims fell about 20 feet to the ground below during this incident, resulting in broken bones and other minor injuries. In January of that same year, another balcony collapse occurred at an apartment complex in Long Branch. In this incident, the structure was rated to hold up to 8 people; however, 15 were on it at the time and several were injured when it gave way.

These frightening collapses serve as a reminder of how important proper inspection and maintenance of balconies and decks can be. All structural components must be regularly checked for weaknesses or damage that could lead to collapse. Neglecting these routine checks can have catastrophic consequences – something New Jerseyans have seen firsthand in recent years.

“No matter what property you own,” says an inspector from Brick Township, “take the time to make sure your balcony or deck is properly maintained.” With proper upkeep, property owners can rest assured knowing their outdoor spaces are safe for use.

The danger of balcony and deck collapses cannot be overstated, as evidenced by incidents like these in New Jersey. By staying vigilant with maintenance, property owners can help prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

Who is responsible for these kinds of accidents?

In the event of a balcony or deck collapse accident in New Jersey, multiple parties could be held responsible. This can include architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, and property owners.

Architects may be liable if their design for the balcony or deck was structurally inadequate. Engineers could also face responsibility if they failed to ensure that their calculations were accurate and up to date with the latest building codes. Contractors and subcontractors may have had a role in providing defective materials or construction methods that contributed to the collapse. Similarly, material suppliers may have been at fault if their products were below standard or not suitable for the intended use.

Finally, property owners should bear some responsibility for the condition of their balconies and decks. They should inspect them regularly to ensure that they are safe and make any necessary repairs or renovations as soon as possible to avoid further liability. In some cases, property owners may also be held responsible if they fail to follow local building codes when constructing the balcony or deck in the first place.

Overall, there are a variety of parties that could both, directly and indirectly, contribute to a New Jersey balcony or deck collapse accident, and all must be held accountable for their role to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.

What if the building contractor is responsible for the collapse?

If the building contractor is responsible for a balcony or deck collapse, they can be held liable for any physical injury or property damage resulting from the collapse. They may face civil legal action from victims of the accident, including monetary damages to cover medical bills, lost wages due to work absences, and other expenses related to the injury. This could also include punitive damages in certain cases if it is determined that the contractor was grossly negligent in their construction.

The building contractor may also be subject to criminal charges if gross negligence or recklessness can be proven. Depending on the severity of the incident, this could lead to jail time and/or significant fines. In some instances, the building inspector who signed off on the balcony or deck may also be held liable if it is determined that they did not perform their duties properly.

Regardless of responsibility, the building contractor may be subject to revocation or suspension of their license and/or required to pay fines imposed by the state or local municipality for violation of construction codes or ordinances. They may also be required to take corrective action to repair or replace any structures deemed unsafe due to their negligence or recklessness. Additionally, professional liability insurance providers may refuse coverage for future claims stemming from similar incidents involving the same contractor.

In extreme cases, a building contractor can even face felony charges for serious injury resulting from balcony or deck collapse caused by gross negligence. These charges can carry severe consequences and could include imprisonment in certain instances. All contractors need to be aware of the potential legal and financial consequences that can arise from a balcony or deck collapse. They need to follow all safety protocols, use appropriate materials, design structures by local building codes and take all other precautions necessary to prevent any catastrophic accidents.

​By taking these preventative steps, contractors can avoid any liability that may arise from a balcony or deck collapse and ensure the safety of all involved. In addition to following safety protocols, building contractors should also carry professional liability insurance in case an accident does occur. This will help protect them from any legal action that may lead to a balcony or deck collapse and provide some financial coverage in the event of an incident. The best way for contractors to avoid facing any legal action is to take necessary precautions beforehand and remain vigilant about safety during construction projects.

It is important for all parties involved in the construction process to be aware of what happens if the building contractor is responsible for a balcony or deck collapse. Being cognizant of potential liabilities and taking necessary precautions can help to prevent any unfortunate accidents from occurring and protect everyone involved. Understanding the legal and financial consequences that could arise from a balcony or deck collapse can also ensure that all parties are held accountable for their actions, which is essential for public safety.​

What damages can I be awarded from my injury lawsuit?

The damages you could be awarded in your balcony and deck collapse accident case will depend on the extent of your injury, as well as any other costs associated with the incident. You may be compensated for medical bills, lost wages due to time spent away from work, pain, and suffering, damage to property or possessions, emotional distress, loss of consortium (the physical and emotional connection between a married couple), or punitive damages if necessary. In addition to economic losses such as lost wages and medical expenses, victims of balcony and deck collapses can also seek non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

Pain and suffering describe both physical discomforts resulting from an injury as well as mental anguish that may accompany it. This type of compensation is intended to compensate a victim for the losses and difficulties they have endured due to the accident. Finally, punitive damages may be awarded if a defendant is found to have acted with malice or disregard for others’ safety. These are meant to punish defendants and deter similar future behavior. While it’s difficult to quantify how much you could be awarded in your balcony and deck collapse accident case, discussing your situation with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you better understand what kind of compensation you may be entitled to receive.

With the right legal guidance, you can seek justice and pursue the full and fair amount of compensation that is rightfully yours following a balcony or deck collapse injury. Don’t hesitate—to reach out today for a free consultation. An experienced lawyer will review your claim and help you understand your legal rights and options under the law. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means that there are no upfront costs associated with filing a claim; so, don’t let financial concerns prevent you from getting the help you need. Contact an experienced attorney today and get your life back on track.

We know this is a difficult time for you and we want to do everything we can to ensure that justice is served in your accident case. Our team of experienced attorneys will fight tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve following a balcony or deck collapse accident. We have extensive experience advocating for victims of negligence and we’re here to help make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.

The aftermath of a balcony or deck collapse can be complicated, costly, and emotionally draining. We understand the struggles you’re facing, and we want to help in any way we can. Get in touch with our team of experienced attorneys today to learn more about how we can help you seek justice and pursue fair compensation following your accident. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Your well-being is paramount and seeking justice in these cases helps hold negligent individuals accountable while also bringing closure to victims like yourself. You have rights, so don’t hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who has handled numerous balcony and deck collapse cases before yours. With their assistance, you may be able to receive compensation for your losses and move forward during this difficult time.

We wish you the best of luck as you seek justice in your balcony and deck collapse accident case. Don’t hesitate—to reach out today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights and options under the law. Fighting for justice can make all the difference, so don’t delay!

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