Parking garage collapses can cause serious injuries and even fatalities. They are not as common as other types of building collapses, but when they happen, they can have devastating consequences. These incidents can occur for several reasons, including poor construction, inadequate maintenance, and design flaws.
If you were injured, if your car was damaged, or if both occurred due to the collapse of an improperly maintained parking garage, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages—and a parking garage collapse lawyer can help ensure you get every penny you need.
Compensation awarded from a successful lawsuit can help to cover expenses associated with the accident, such as medical expenses, vehicle repairs or replacements, and even lost wages from missed work due to injuries. In the worst case scenario where a loved one has died, compensation can even cover funeral expenses or the loss of companionship.
At Morgan & Morgan, we have fought for personal injury victims for over 35 years, with over $20 billion recovered for our clients. If you were affected by an unfortunate parking garage collapse, contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We may be able to put you in touch with the right parking garage collapse lawyer for you.
Causes of Parking Garage Collapses
Parking garage collapses can occur for various reasons, but the three most common causes include:
Poor Construction
If the parking garage is not constructed correctly, it can lead to structural problems that can cause the building to collapse. For example, if the concrete used in the construction is low quality, it can crack and lead to instability. Additionally, if the steel used in the construction is not of a lesser quality or is not installed correctly, it can lead to structural issues.
Inadequate Maintenance
If the parking garage is not maintained correctly, vulnerabilities and structural problems can develop over time. For example, if the parking garage is not routinely inspected, small issues can grow into significant problems over time. A small crack that goes unnoticed can continue to increase in size through varying temperatures throughout the year and can eventually begin to crumble.
Additionally, if the parking garage is not cleaned regularly, debris can build up, which can cause structural damage.
Design Flaws
If the parking garage's design is flawed, it can lead to structural problems that cause the building to collapse. For example, if the parking garage is designed with insufficient support columns, it can lead to structural instability, which can be exacerbated by the weight of cars once the garage is open to the public for parking. Additionally, if the parking garage is designed with a sloping floor, it can collect water and lead to water damage, which can cause structural damage.
What to Do if Hurt in a Parking Garage Collapse
If you've been injured in a parking garage collapse, you may be entitled to compensation. Here's what you should do:
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do if you've been injured in a parking garage collapse is to seek medical attention. Your health should be your top priority, and you should make sure that you get the care you need.
Contact a Lawyer
After seeking medical attention, you should contact a lawyer who has experience handling cases involving parking garage collapses. They can help you understand your legal rights and options.
Preserve Evidence
It's important to preserve any evidence related to the parking garage collapse. This includes taking photos of the scene and gathering witness statements.
File a Claim
Your parking garage collapse lawyer will help you file a claim for compensation. This can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.