When a building unexpectedly collapses, the outcome can be catastrophic. Whether you were working on-site, visiting the building, or simply passing by, a collapse can leave you facing serious injuries and mounting expenses. In the middle of this chaos, you might be unsure of what to do next. That is where an experienced premises liability attorney comes in. A trusted legal advocate could help you make sense of the situation, identify your legal options, and begin the process of holding the right people accountable.
Working with a Houston building collapse lawyer may be one of the most important steps you take. Unlike relying on a public defender or navigating insurance negotiations on your own, having a private attorney on your side could make the process smoother and more effective. Your legal team could coordinate with inspectors, engineers, and other experts to uncover what went wrong and build a solid case. Whether the collapse stemmed from poor construction, a faulty foundation, or years of ignored maintenance, you deserve answers and help in seeking justice.
Common Causes of Structural Failures
Not all building collapses are unpredictable. Many stem from preventable issues that someone should have addressed long before disaster struck. When a structure collapses in Houston, an experienced attorney could look into a variety of causes, including:
- Design flaws or structural defects
- Use of substandard or faulty materials
- Violations of safety regulations or building codes
- Failure to maintain the property or act on warnings
The local area’s growth and climate create unique conditions that may affect building safety. From shifting soil to severe storms, multiple factors could play a role. A thorough investigation may reveal that one or more parties—including developers, contractors, or owners—acted negligently.
Injuries That May Occur After a Building Collapse
Injuries from a collapse are often serious and life-altering. Victims might suffer from the following:
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Crush-related trauma
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Death
Recovery can involve surgeries, rehabilitation, and months—or years—of medical care. In many cases, victims face ongoing physical limitations and are unable to return to work.
A building collapse lawyer could help an injured person in Houston pursue compensation to cover medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related costs. Legal counsel could also push back against attempts to minimize the person’s injuries or deny their claim.
Who Could Be Responsible for a Collapse?
It is common for multiple parties to share liability after a structural failure. Depending on the facts, responsibility could rest with a contractor, developer, property owner, or engineer. Violations of Houston’s Building Code or Texas Occupations Code § 1305 might indicate that one or more professionals failed to meet safety standards.
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Under Texas Civil Practices & Remedies Code § 33.001, if the court finds an accident victim partially responsible for the incident, it could potentially result in reduced compensation. This makes it all the more important to work with a Houston lawyer who understands the law and how to build a building collapse claim.
Call a Houston Structural Collapse Attorney Today
You may feel overwhelmed in the aftermath of a building collapse, but you do not have to go through this alone. A knowledgeable Houston building collapse lawyer could investigate the cause, help you understand your rights, and take steps to pursue the compensation owed to you.
If you are ready to talk, we are here to listen. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and find out how we could help you take the next step forward.