Balconies are a favorite spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. However, if not properly maintained, they can become dangerous, leading to severe or even fatal injuries.
If you are hurt in a balcony accident, we can guide you through the process and fight for compensation. Our balcony accident attorneys in Chicago can help protect your rights and bring the best chance of obtaining justice!
What Assistance Does Our Balcony Accidents Attorney Provide?
Obtaining fair compensation can be a complicated process that takes time. That is where our experienced balcony accident attorney can assist you. Our Chicago Injury Lawyer can solve your case in areas other than personal injury law.
Here are the areas of our expertise:
Extensive Investigation
Our skilled attorney will investigate the circumstances of your accident. They will identify the root cause of the balcony’s falling. This may involve reviewing property maintenance records, interviewing witnesses, and consulting engineering experts to determine if negligence was involved.
Understanding Liability
Determining liability is crucial in premises liability cases. Our injury lawyers in Chicago will identify all potentially liable parties, which may include:
- Property owners
- Landlords or property management companies
- Construction companies or contractors
- Maintenance or inspection services
Building a Strong Case
To secure compensation, you need to prove that negligence caused your injuries. Our attorney will compile evidence, such as photos of the accident scene, medical records, and expert testimony. They will establish a compelling case.
Maximizing Compensation
Balcony accident victims often face costly medical bills, lost income, and emotional pain. Our experienced attorney can help you secure fair compensation for these losses. Insurance companies typically offer low settlements. Our attorney will handle all negotiations, ensuring your rights are protected.
Common Causes of Balcony Accidents in Chicago
Balcony accidents can occur for various underlying causes. They are more common in high-rise buildings and older structures where maintenance may be lacking.
Here are some common causes of balcony accidents in Chicago:
- Structural Failures: Weather, age, or poor construction can weaken balconies, leading to collapses or cracks.
- Improper Design or Construction: Unsafe designs, low railings, or substandard materials increase risks, making builders or contractors liable for negligence.
- Lack of Maintenance: Rust, rotting wood, and loose railings from neglect can cause accidents, holding property owners accountable.
- Negligent Management: Property managers who fail to address repairs or safety hazards may be liable for resulting injuries.
- Weather Hazards: Rain, ice, or extreme temperatures can weaken balconies or create slippery surfaces, increasing accident risks.
- Improper Use: Overcrowding or misusing balconies can lead to accidents, even if owners are not directly responsible for unsafe conditions.
- Defective Materials: Faulty materials or premature deterioration can result in collapses, placing manufacturers or contractors responsible.
Types of Injuries Caused by Balcony Accidents
A study in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine found about 86,500 balcony falls in the U.S. between 1990 and 2006, including eight deaths.
Some other common injuries caused by balcony accidents are:
- Broken Bones – Common in falls or collapses.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Caused by head impacts during falls.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Resulting in paralysis or mobility issues.
- Lacerations and Abrasions – From sharp edges or debris.
- Internal Injuries – Damage to organs from the impact of a fall.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Sprains, strains, or torn ligaments.
- Neck and Back Injuries – Often caused by sudden impacts.
- Dislocations – Joints forced out of position during a fall.
- Burns – From contact with hot or defective balcony materials.
- Fatalities – In severe cases, accidents can be deadly.
What to Do After a Balcony Accident in Chicago
After a balcony accident, take proper steps immediately to improve your chances of a successful legal outcome.
Here are some things we recommend doing after a balcony accident:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health and safety are the top concern. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the Scene
Take photos of the damaged or collapsed balcony and the surrounding area if you can. Document any potential threats, damage, or signs of neglect. Look for rust, cracked wood, or loose railings. This evidence will be crucial for your attorney when building your case.
- Report the Incident
If you rent or live in an apartment complex and face an accident in the apartment complex, report the accident to the property owner or manager. Make sure to document the report in writing. If the property owner is responsible for the accident, you will need proof that they were notified.
- Keep a Record of Medical Treatment
Keep detailed records of all medical treatments related to the accident. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, prescriptions, and any other healthcare services you receive.
- Consult with a Balcony Accidents Attorney
Contact an experienced balcony accident attorney in Chicago, like us, as soon as possible. We can guide you through the further steps, help you understand your legal options, and advocate for your rights.
Balcony Accident Lawyer Cost Estimator
Potential Compensation in a Chicago Balcony Accident Case
In Illinois, balcony accidents can lead to severe injuries and even fatalities. The law provides specific standards for compensation following the filing of claims. Here are some examples:
Illinois Personal Injury Law
According to the Personal Injury Law (735 ILCS 5/13-202), victims of Chicago can recover medical expenses, including future treatment, following a balcony accident. This can cover hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
Claims must be filed within two years of the accident date under the Illinois statute of limitations.
Premises Liability Law
Under Illinois law (740 ILCS 130/1), property owners must maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition to prevent injuries to lawful visitors. If an individual is injured due to hazardous conditions, such as wet floors, broken stairs, or insufficient security, they may pursue a premises liability claim.
Victims must file these claims within the two-year statute of limitations. Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering caused by the property owner’s negligence.
Wrongful Death Claim
If a balcony accident results in death, surviving family members can file a Wrongful Death Claim (740 ILCS 180). Under the wrongful death act, they get compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.
This lawsuit must be filed within two years of the death.
Take Action Right Now!
A balcony accident can upend your life in an instant. But you do not have to face this challenge in isolation. By partnering with us, you can take the first step towards justice. Contact our experienced attorney today to schedule a free consultation and explore your legal options. Your road to recovery starts here!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a balcony accident case take?
Timelines vary based on the case’s complexity, negotiations, and whether the case proceeds to trial. An attorney can provide a better estimate. Generally, it takes anywhere from a few months to a few years.
What if I were partially at fault for the accident?
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation if you were less than 50% at fault. Your percentage of fault may reduce your compensation.
Can I file a claim if the accident happened on private property?
Yes, you can file a claim if the accident occurred on private property, provided you can prove negligence by the property owner or other responsible parties.
