Parking garages, stadiums, skyscrapers and similar types of buildings are just some examples of structures that can cause construction-related injuries. Considering that the large slabs of concrete used to construct them are often suspended high off the ground, the risks of a deck collapse accident is always present.
How Decks Can Be Dangerous
Imagine how these buildings and decks are constructed. Iron workers build the decking to function as concrete floor’s underpinnings. They add wooden frames to set the exact parameters for the concrete decks. While constructing the wooden structures, setting the steel rebar and supports and when pouring cement, mistakes can happen. Sometimes these construction defects can lead to devastating accidents years down the road.
Causes of Deck Collapse Accidents
There can be a range of causes of deck collapses and other large supporting structure failures some include:
- The failure of bolts holding the framing structures
- Incorrect installation of steel beams and other elements
- Overloading of structure
- Inadequate design of the structure
- Failure to inspect the structure
Regardless of the cause, it is important to understand what you should do if you are a victim.
Suing for Construction Defects
A property damage or personal injury claim related to a structure collapse must be filed within a specific period. The deadline is often based on the date of the injury. States impose different statute of limitations so you have to check with the existing laws of the state where the injury occurred.
Nonetheless, in the case of construction defect claims related to construction that dates a couple of years back, the statute of limitations can get in your way. All hope is not lost. There are actually many states that uphold laws that do not follow the statute of limitations provided that there is a hidden defect. However, it is important to note that there is a difference between not knowing about the defect and it actually being hidden.
Multiple Lawsuits Often Arise in a Structure Collapse
In cases of major construction accidents like a structure or deck collapse, there can be litigation:
- By the developers against the general contractors, architects and structural engineers
- By the structure owner against the developer
- By the victims who were injured (or had property damaged) in the accident against all of the above
Consulting With An Experienced Lawyer
Construction defect and major injury claims as a result of a structural collapse are very complicated due to the nature of the claim and all the parties involved. If you or a loved one have been injured in a deck collapse or any other kind of structure collapse accident then you should get in touch with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. At Willens Law Office, we have the experience to handle your case and get you the highest compensation possible for your injuries and damages.
