Many establishments have decks or balconies in Georgia, offering a perfect setting to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Whether you are having dinner outside at a charming restaurant in Augusta or standing on a hotel balcony overlooking the scenic views of Athens, you should feel safe and secure. Unfortunately, not all property or business owners keep up with essential building maintenance and repairs, which can lead to a devastating deck or balcony collapse. At Burnside Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping those injured in deck or balcony collapses receive the compensation they deserve when these preventable accidents occur.
The safety of a deck or balcony is the sole responsibility of the property owner. No one should be allowed to stand on a platform that is not stable or secure. When these elevated structures fail, serious injury, even fatalities, can occur. The owner of the building is responsible for maintaining a safe environment, especially when it is a commercial establishment. Through a premises liability claim against the property’s owner, those injured by a balcony or deck collapse can receive compensation to help pay for financial losses from the accident.
FAQ: Balcony or Deck Collapses Premises Liability in Georgia
What are the common causes of balcony or deck collapses?
Balcony or deck collapses can result from various factors, including poor construction, inadequate maintenance, weather damage, overloading, and the use of substandard materials. Regular inspections and timely repairs are crucial to preventing these types of accidents.
Who is liable if I am injured in a balcony or deck collapse in Georgia?
In Georgia, the property owner is typically liable for injuries resulting from a balcony or deck collapse. Property owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition, and failure to do so can result in a premises liability claim.
What should I do if I am injured in a balcony or deck collapse?
If you are injured in a balcony or deck collapse, seek medical attention immediately. Document the scene with photos, gather contact information from witnesses, and report the incident to the property owner. Contact an experienced premises liability attorney to discuss your case and potential compensation.
What types of compensation can I receive from a premises liability claim for a balcony or deck collapse?
Victims of balcony or deck collapses may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the property owner and deter future negligence.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the balcony or deck collapse?
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still file a claim if you were partially at fault as long as your fault does not exceed 50%. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.
How can a premises liability attorney help with my balcony or deck collapse case?
A skilled premises liability attorney can help investigate the cause of the collapse, gather necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed. Their expertise ensures that your rights are protected and you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Can I sue a construction company for a balcony or deck collapse?
If the collapse was due to construction defects or substandard materials, you may have a claim against the construction company or contractor responsible for building the balcony or deck. An attorney can help determine if a construction defect contributed to the collapse and pursue compensation from the liable parties.
Have You or a Loved One Been Injured Due to Faulty Construction?
Deck or balcony failures can occur through either poor maintenance or faulty construction. When they collapse, serious injury or death can occur, resulting in the need for medical care, rehabilitation and ongoing financial strain for the victims and their families. If you or a loved one have been the victim of a deck or balcony accident, you deserve to be compensated for your injury or loss which may have been prevented by proper construction or building maintenance.
Burnside Law Firm can help victims of deck and balcony accidents get the compensation they deserve for their injury or loss. We have been helping our clients in Georgia receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other financial costs for personal injuries since 1978. Contact us today to discuss your case free of charge if you or a loved one were injured in a balcony or deck collapse accident.
