Summer is traditionally the season when news headlines frequently report wooden deck collapses. Most often, these are the wooden decks attached to homes and apartments. And our deck collapse injury attorneys point out that the costly deck collapses usually occur during BBQs and other gatherings.
The wooden deck collapse at Auburn University Montgomery was the wooden deck attached to a cleaning trailer. 3 custodial workers were on it when it collapsed shortly before 5 on Thursday morning. The wooden deck connected the cleaning trailer with the Building Services annex.
Our deck collapse injury attorneys note that the three maintenance workers fell about 5 feet through the collapsing deck as one worker exited the building and another started to enter it. Two of the custodial workers received transport to the hospital for possible leg fractures and the third worker suffered knee and ankle injuries. (Sources: Scott Johnson, The Montgomery Advertiser: and Rosanna Smith, WSFA.com, 6/6/13)
Wooden decks should be inspected at least once a year for:
The deck collapse injury attorneys at Denena Points, PC emphasize that any needed maintenance should be performed at once before the deck is used again. A sudden deck collapse could cause severe injuries or fatalities for which the property owner that had neglected to inspect or maintain the deck might find themselves financially liable.
To avoid costly liabilities, property owners should frequently inspect and make repairs to their wooden decks or other outdoor structures. In general, wooden decks have a lifespan of 20 years or less before they need replacement. Hot and humid climates, seaside climates with salt air and humidity, and climates with extreme winters tend to age wooden decks faster then more temperate climates.
Learn more about the causes of costly deck collapses
Click the book icon on this page to download your FREE guide that provides information on how to prevent costly deck collapses, and what you should do if you suffer injury because of a collapsed deck. If you have questions about your specific injuries, don’t hesitate to contact the deck collapse injury attorneys at Denena Points, PC for a FREE, no obligation initial legal consultation. We could discuss the circumstances of your accident and evaluate your potential eligibility for financial compensation for the harm you’ve suffered. We’re available at 281-369-4363 or just fill out our online contact form to reach us. We never charge any attorneys’ fees unless we win your financial compensation claim for you, so there’s no financial risk to you.