How Building Code Violations Lead to Serious Injuries

When a building is under construction or has already been constructed, you expect that the team behind the construction has done their homework, particularly when it comes to safety. But for so long, that hasn’t been the case. At Morgan and Morgan, we have witnessed numerous cases of building code violations, some of which have led to serious injuries and even the loss of loved ones. If that’s what you’re dealing with, help is a free case evaluation away. Contact us to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Examples of Common Building Code Violations

There are several types of building code violations, but some are more common than others. These can include the following.

Defects in the Structure of the Building

Structural defects are deficiencies in a building’s physical design or construction that make it unsafe. This can be anything from faulty foundations to unstable walls or ceilings. Property owners must regularly inspect their buildings for any signs of structural damage and take steps to repair any issues before they lead to injury. If the property owner neglects their responsibility, they could be held liable for any injuries caused due to structural defects.

Broken/Missing Handrails on Stairs

Staircases without proper handrails can cause falls and other serious injuries. Property owners must ensure that their staircases have functional handrails at all times. Otherwise, they may face liability if someone gets injured because of it. Additionally, broken or missing handrails pose an additional risk as people may try to grab onto them, leading to falling down the stairs and sustaining an injury as a result.

Uneven Steps

Uneven steps can also cause slips, trips, and falls, which can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, or even death in extreme cases. Property owners must ensure that all steps on staircases comply with building codes so that accidents do not occur due to uneven steps or other hazards that could have been avoided by following safety regulations.

Defective Wiring

Defective wiring is another common issue that can lead to fires and electrical shocks. Property owners must ensure that all wiring within their premises complies with safety regulations to avoid potential accidents due to faulty wiring systems. If a fire does break out due to defective wiring, then the property owner may be liable for any resulting damages or injuries caused by it.

Defective Balconies/Railings

Balconies need regular maintenance to prevent potential accidents caused by railings becoming loose or defective over time. These defects could result in someone falling off the balcony or sustaining an injury while trying not to fall off it. Property owners should inspect balconies regularly to avoid any potential liability from occurring if someone gets injured because of negligent maintenance practices.

Possible Effects of Building Code Violations

As mentioned, violations of building codes can lead to serious injuries. Even worse, these injuries may affect even those not involved in the decision-making process, such as innocent public members, construction workers, and even tenants.

For example, faulty electrical wiring can result in fires or electrocutions. Similarly, inadequate structural integrity might lead to collapses that cause crush injuries or even fatalities.

Lack of proper exits in a fire, on the other hand, can trap people inside a building, leading to injuries from smoke inhalation or burns.

Potential Liable Parties After an Accident Caused By Building Code Violations

After an accident resulting from building code violations, several parties might be held liable. These may include but are not limited to the following:

• The property owner, if they failed to ensure that the building adhered to local codes.
• Contractors and architects, if their negligence led to unsafe conditions. 
• City or municipal inspectors, if they failed to identify and enforce compliance with building codes.

Don’t Wait – Contact Morgan and Morgan Today

If you or someone you know has been injured due to building code violations, it's crucial to seek legal advice promptly. Our specialists can help determine who is at fault and assist in pursuing a claim for damages you may be owed. To get started, fill out our free, no-obligation case evaluation.