A property owner or their appointed agent has a responsibility to regularly inspect the property to identify any potential threats to the safety of guests. This includes the routine maintenance of stairways both inside and outside a structure. If the condition is poor and it is apparent that it poses a danger to the welfare of anyone who might try to traverse it, it should be closed and repaired promptly. Failure to inspect or maintain these important features in a building can lead to a preventable stair collapse that is likely to cause severe injuries for any who are affected.

If you or your loved one has been injured as a consequence of a property owner’s negligence, you may be able to sue for financial compensation to address any medical expenses or other damages. To discuss your situation with a skilled and experienced legal representative, contact the Kansas City personal injury attorneys of The Pottenger Law Firm LLC, at 816-531-6006.

Negligence in Stair Collapse Accidents

Though there is not typically a reason for one to consider that height at which stairs place them, even in a two-story structure an individual may be as high as 12 feet or more off of the ground. A fall from such a height is likely to produce significant injuries, possibly including traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, broken bones, and others. Accordingly, property owners must take great care to prevent such accidents. When stairs are not inspected and maintained regularly for serious safety concerns, some of the following issues may arise:

It is also the responsibility of the property owner or manager to prevent the stairs from being subject to a load of excessive weight. This is especially important for older, frailer stairs which are likely to collapse under such conditions.