Railing Failures in Philadelphia
Balconies offer fresh air and city views. In Philadelphia, many residents rely on them as their only outdoor space. Unfortunately, older buildings and poorly maintained properties can create serious safety risks.
A loose or deteriorating railing can cause devastating injuries. Landowners must keep railings secure. When they fail to inspect or repair them, people get hurt.
Railings protect guests, tenants, and customers. Property owners must treat them as critical safety features, not cosmetic elements.
Why Railing Failures Happen
Railing failures often occur in:
• Older rowhomes
• Apartment balconies
• Exterior staircases
• Second-floor decks
• Commercial properties
Over time, wood rots. Metal corrodes. Fasteners loosen. Without routine inspection and maintenance, a railing can collapse without warning.
Homeowner and Landlord Responsibilities
Imagine you visit a friend’s home in Northeast Philadelphia. The home has a second-floor deck. You lean against the railing, and it suddenly gives way. You fall and suffer serious injuries.
Property owners owe guests a duty of care. They must reasonably inspect their property and repair unsafe conditions. If an owner fails to inspect a railing for years, they likely breached that duty.
Homeowners insurance often covers these incidents, but coverage does not eliminate liability.
Under the Philadelphia Property Maintenance Code, landowners must keep exterior structures in safe and sound condition. That includes decks and railings.
Commercial Property Liability
If a railing fails at a hotel, restaurant, or apartment complex, the property owner may face liability.
Commercial property owners must conduct regular inspections. They must fix hazards promptly. If they ignore structural dangers, injured individuals can pursue compensation.
In a lawsuit, the injured person must show that the owner failed to maintain the property in a reasonably safe condition.
Comparative Fault in Pennsylvania
Injured guests must also act with reasonable care. If a railing clearly appears unstable and someone ignores warnings, that conduct could affect recovery.
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you share some responsibility, the court may reduce your compensation.
What To Do After a Railing Collapse
If a railing fails and you fall:
1. Seek medical attention immediately.
2. Document the scene with photographs.
3. Report the incident to the property owner or manager.
4. Preserve medical records and accident reports.
5. Speak with an experienced Philadelphia premises liability attorney.
Even minor falls can cause spinal injuries or traumatic brain injuries. Immediate evaluation protects both your health and your legal rights.
Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law gives injured victims two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. The clock usually begins on the date of injury.
Delays can prevent you from recovering compensation. Early legal guidance strengthens your case.
Speak With a Philadelphia Premises Liability Lawyer
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a balcony or railing collapse, you do not have to handle the situation alone.
The insurance and accident attorneys at Freundlich & Littman, LLC represent injured clients across Philadelphia and surrounding counties.
Call 215-545-8500 or email info@FreundlichandLittman.com to schedule a free consultation.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
