Structural Collapse Lawyers

With extensive construction and infrastructure development activity in Texas, the potential for structural collapses is an ever-present concern. Whether it is a towering building, a vital bridge, a scenic balcony, a precarious trench, or the scaffolding that reaches for the sky, the consequences of a structural failure can be catastrophic for construction workers in the state.

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At Miller Weisbrod Olesky, when it comes to structural collapse accidents that cause serious personal injury or wrongful death, we turn over every stone in order to get to the cause and recover for the losses to our clients. If you've suffered serious personal injuries in a structural collapse, it is time to fight back. Our seasoned Texas structural collapse lawyers are ready to prove liability of the defendants and recover the largest possible financial compensation for you through a settlement or court trial.

A general contractor failed to place adequate bracing during a "Tilt Wall Construction" project causing the suspended concrete wall to collapse onto our client's leg. The falling wall caused numerous fractures leading to several orthopedic surgeries. After extensive litigation against multiple construction site defendants, Miller Weisbrod Olesky won a $3,100,000 settlement for our client.

A structural failure or collapse on a construction site refers to the sudden, unexpected, and often catastrophic breakdown of a building, bridge, balcony, trench, scaffolding, wall or any other constructed structure. These failures occur when a structure is unable to support the loads and forces it was designed to withstand, resulting in its partial or total collapse.

Structural failures can have devastating consequences, including injuries or fatalities to construction workers, bystanders, or occupants, as well as significant property damage. These failures can be caused by a variety of factors, including design flaws, construction errors, material defects, overloading, inadequate maintenance, or unforeseen environmental conditions.

Structural collapses are among the most serious and dangerous incidents that can occur on construction sites in Texas, often necessitating thorough investigations to determine the root causes and hold the negligent parties liable for construction worker injuries and fatalities.

Our client suffered a broken ankle during a balcony collapse at her apartment complex. A contractor was hired to replace rotting balconies within the complex. They failed to provide adequate support on the hew design structure of the balconies being constructed. Months later the balcony collapsed fracturing our client's ankle resulting in surgery. When the insurance company failed to pay their required limits, Attorney Clay Miller took the case to trial and won a verdict above the insurance limits that they paid in full.

Structural integrity refers to the ability of a building, bridge, or any constructed structure to withstand the loads, forces, and stresses it is subjected to while maintaining its stability, safety, and functionality. In essence, it assesses the structural soundness and durability of a construction, ensuring that it can perform its intended purpose safely and reliably throughout its expected lifespan.

Key aspects of structural integrity include:

• Strength: The structure must possess the necessary strength to support the loads it will encounter during its normal use, as well as any unforeseen or extreme loads that might occur due to accidents, natural disasters, or other exceptional circumstances.
• Stiffness: Structural integrity involves the ability to maintain its shape and resist deformation or excessive movement when subjected to forces such as wind, earthquakes, or dynamic loads from machinery or traffic.
• Durability: A structurally sound construction should have materials and components that can withstand environmental factors like moisture, temperature fluctuations, corrosion, and wear and tear over time without significant deterioration.
• Safety: Ensuring the safety of occupants, workers, and the public is a fundamental aspect of structural integrity. It includes measures to prevent collapse, minimize risks of injury, and adhere to building codes and safety regulations.
• Serviceability: Beyond safety and stability, a structure should also meet serviceability requirements, such as providing a comfortable and functional environment for its intended use. This can involve considerations like minimizing vibrations, controlling deflections, and ensuring ease of access and use.

Structural engineers, architects, general contractors, and subcontractors play a pivotal role in evaluating and ensuring structural integrity during the design, construction, and maintenance phases of a building or infrastructure project. They are expected to employ engineering principles, materials science, and advanced analysis techniques to calculate loads, assess structural performance, and make design decisions that guarantee the structure's safety and longevity. Regular inspections and maintenance are also essential to preserving structural integrity throughout a structure's lifespan.

If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a structural collapse accident, you need strong legal representation as soon as possible. At Miller Weisbrod Olesky, we are relentless in our pursuit of justice and compensation on behalf of injured workers. Our Texas structural collapse lawyers will not settle for anything less than the maximum financial compensation you are entitled to. We will investigate, strategize, negotiate, and if necessary, litigate aggressively to secure the compensation you deserve. Your path to recovery begins with us, so don't hesitate to reach out.

The negligence of general contractors and subcontractors can contribute to structural collapses on construction sites in Texas in several ways:

Design Errors and Deficiencies

General contractors and subcontractors may be responsible for implementing the design plans and specifications provided by architects and engineers. Negligence in reviewing and following these plans can result in construction that deviates from the approved design, potentially compromising the structural integrity of the building or structure.

Inadequate Supervision

Neglecting to provide proper supervision and oversight of construction activities can lead to errors and omissions during the building process. Without adequate supervision, workers may make critical mistakes, use incorrect materials, or fail to follow safety protocols, all of which can jeopardize the structural integrity of the project.

Substandard Workmanship

Subcontractors and their workers are responsible for executing specific aspects of the construction, such as electrical, plumbing, or framing work. If they perform their tasks with substandard workmanship, it can result in weak connections, flawed installations, or structural components that do not meet industry standards, increasing the risk of collapse.

Non-Compliance with Safety Regulations

General contractors and subcontractors are expected to adhere to safety regulations and building codes to ensure construction site safety and structural integrity. Neglecting these regulations, whether due to ignorance or cost-cutting measures, can create hazardous conditions and increase the likelihood of structural failures.

Subpar Material Selection

The choice of construction materials is critical to the structural integrity of a project. Negligence in selecting materials of appropriate quality or failing to conduct quality control checks on delivered materials can lead to structural deficiencies and potential collapses.

Ignoring Warning Signs

During construction, various signs and indications of potential structural issues may arise. Negligence in recognizing and addressing these warning signs, such as cracks, settling, or uneven foundations, can allow problems to worsen, eventually leading to structural failures.

Neglecting Proper Testing and Inspection

Structural components often require testing and inspection to verify their integrity and compliance with specifications. Neglecting these essential steps or failing to address identified issues promptly can lead to hidden structural problems that may later result in collapses.

Budgetary and Time Pressures

Tight budgets and unrealistic project timelines can lead to shortcuts, inadequate planning, and cost-cutting measures that compromise construction quality and safety. Failure to prioritize safety and structural integrity over cost and speed can have dire consequences.

Lack of Communication

Poor communication among general contractors, subcontractors, and other stakeholders can result in misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and coordination failures. This can lead to errors in execution, missed critical details, and structural issues that go unaddressed.

If you have suffered injuries or the loss of a loved one in a structural collapse accident, you need proven and capable legal advocates capable of challenging construction giants and their powerful insurance providers.

At Miller Weisbrod Olesky, our Texas-based structural collapse accident attorneys are determined to hold the negligent parties accountable while you and your family focus on recovery. We will leave no stone unturned to obtain the maximum financial compensation you rightfully deserve for the toll these injuries and losses have taken on your life.

29 CFR 1926.700, which falls under Subpart Q of OSHA's construction standards, addresses various aspects of structural stability during construction activities. This subpart outlines specific regulations and requirements aimed at ensuring the safety of workers and the structural integrity of buildings and other structures under construction.

Scope and Application (1926.700(a))

This section defines the scope of Subpart Q and its applicability to various construction activities where structural stability is a concern. It specifies that the subpart applies to all types of construction, including the erection, construction, alteration, and dismantling of structures.

General Requirements (1926.700(b))

This section outlines general requirements for structural stability. It underscores the importance of stability during construction and requires that employers take necessary measures to ensure the structural integrity of buildings and structures. This includes providing support systems, bracing, and shoring as needed.

• Shoring: Subpart Q includes regulations related to shoring, which involves the use of supports to prevent soil movement, protect workers in excavations, and maintain the stability of trenches and other excavations. It covers the design, installation, and inspection of shoring systems.
• Underpinning: Underpinning refers to the process of reinforcing the foundation of an existing structure or supporting it during construction. This section outlines requirements for underpinning activities, including the installation of support systems and precautions to protect workers.
• Bracing, Anchoring, and Guying of Equipment and Materials: This section addresses the proper bracing, anchoring, and guying of equipment and materials to ensure they remain stable during construction. It covers requirements for the safe installation and maintenance of these systems.
• Roofing Work on Low-Slope Roofs: This subsection focuses on roofing work performed on low-slope roofs. It specifies requirements for installing structural members, support systems, and roofing materials to maintain stability during roof construction.
• Steel Erection: While not part of Subpart Q, this section within Subpart R outlines additional regulations specific to structural stability during steel erection activities, including requirements for the secure placement and connection of steel members.

Compliance with the regulations outlined in 29 CFR 1926.700 is necessary to maintain structural stability and protect the safety of construction workers. Employers are responsible for understanding and implementing these regulations to ensure that construction activities are carried out safely and without compromising the integrity of the structures being built or modified.

Building collapse accidents at construction sites are among the most devastating occurrences in the construction industry. These accidents involve the sudden and unexpected failure of a structure under construction, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities to workers. Building collapse accidents can take various forms, each with its own set of causes and consequences.

• Total Structural Collapse: This is the most severe form of building collapse, where the entire structure fails and falls to the ground. It can result from a combination of design flaws, construction errors, or inadequate support systems.
• Partial Collapse: In a partial collapse, only a portion of the building gives way while other parts remain standing. This can occur due to localized structural weaknesses, such as a column or beam failure.
• Floor Collapse: Floor collapse accidents typically involve the failure of one or more floors within a multi-story building. This can happen due to overloading, insufficient support, or structural deficiencies.
• Roof Collapse: Roof collapse incidents occur when the building's roof structure fails, often during the construction of the roof or under the weight of heavy materials. Design flaws and inadequate bracing can contribute to such accidents.
• Wall Collapse: A wall collapse can involve the failure of exterior or interior walls, which may occur during construction or demolition. This type of collapse can result from structural weaknesses or improper demolition procedures.
• Foundation Collapse: The foundation of a building is critical to its stability. Foundation collapse can occur due to soil settlement, inadequate support, or excavation-related issues during construction.
• Trench Collapse: In cases involving underground construction, trench collapse accidents can happen when the walls of an excavation site cave in, potentially burying workers. Failure to use proper shoring and excavation safety measures is a common cause.
• Balcony or Walkway Collapse: Balconies, walkways, or elevated platforms can collapse when they are structurally compromised or overloaded. These incidents may result from design flaws, poor maintenance, or excessive weight.
• Bridge or Overpass Collapse: Bridge and overpass collapses typically involve larger-scale structures. These accidents can result from a combination of design flaws, inadequate maintenance, or the impact of external factors like heavy traffic or natural disasters.
• Crane Collapse: While not a building collapse per se, crane collapses can occur on construction sites, leading to injuries and damage. These incidents can result from crane design flaws, operator errors, or adverse weather conditions.
• Tunnel or Underground Structure Collapse: In tunneling or underground construction, collapses can occur due to excavation issues, ground movement, or failure to provide proper support.

Bridge collapse accidents in Texas have the potential to cause severe injuries, fatalities, and significant infrastructure damage. These incidents typically occur during the construction or repair of bridges and can result from a range of factors, often involving errors in design, construction, or maintenance. Here are some common causes of bridge collapse accidents:

• Design Flaws: Errors or deficiencies in the bridge's architectural and engineering design can compromise its structural integrity from the outset. This might include miscalculations, inadequate materials, or improper load-bearing capacity considerations.
• Construction Errors: Mistakes made during the construction process can weaken the bridge's structure. These errors may involve improper assembly of components, incorrect installation of materials, or failure to follow design specifications.
• Substandard Materials: The use of substandard or low-quality construction materials can compromise the strength and durability of the bridge. Inadequate quality control and inspection of materials can contribute to this issue.
• Foundation Problems: The stability of a bridge relies heavily on the integrity of its foundation. Foundation issues, such as inadequate support, soil instability, or settling, can undermine the bridge's structural stability.
• Overloading: Applying excessive weight or loads to the bridge before it is ready to bear them can lead to structural failure. This may result from construction equipment, materials, or unexpected heavy loads on the bridge during construction.
• Inadequate Maintenance: Bridges require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure their ongoing structural integrity. Neglecting routine maintenance can allow hidden problems to worsen over time, eventually leading to collapse.
• Natural Disasters: Severe weather events, earthquakes, flooding, or other natural disasters can cause significant stress on bridges, potentially leading to their collapse.
• Neglecting Safety Regulations: Failure to adhere to safety regulations, building codes, and industry standards during construction can create hazardous conditions that increase the risk of a bridge collapse.
• Lack of Inspections: Inadequate inspections or the failure to identify and address structural issues can allow problems to go undetected until they result in a catastrophic failure.
• Aging Infrastructure: Older bridges may be more prone to structural problems due to wear and tear over the years. The lack of upgrades or renovations can exacerbate these issues.

Bridge collapses underscore the importance of rigorous safety protocols, thorough design and construction practices, and regular inspections to ensure the structural integrity of bridges in Texas.

Balcony collapse accidents at construction sites in Texas are a subset of building collapse incidents that involve the failure of balconies or elevated walkways during or after construction. These accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities to construction workers.

Balcony collapse accidents on construction sites can vary in nature and severity, but they generally fall into several categories based on the circumstances and causes. Here are some common types of balcony collapse accidents:

• Total Structural Collapse: This is the most severe type of balcony collapse, where the entire balcony structure fails and falls to the ground. Such collapses can result from design flaws, poor construction, or a combination of factors.
• Partial Collapse: In a partial balcony collapse, only a portion of the balcony fails while other sections remain intact. This can occur due to localized structural weaknesses, such as a failure of one side or a support beam.
• Overloading: Overloading balcony collapses happen when the balcony is subjected to excessive weight or loads that it cannot bear. This may occur during construction if construction materials, equipment, or too many workers are placed on the balcony at once.
• Balcony Detachment: Balcony detachment occurs when the balcony separates from the building structure. This can happen due to poor attachment methods, corrosion of fasteners, or structural deficiencies.
• Support Structure Failure: Sometimes, the support structure or connections holding the balcony in place can fail, leading to a collapse. This may result from design flaws, poor workmanship, or inadequate maintenance.
• Material Failure: Balcony collapses can occur if the materials used in the construction deteriorate over time. For example, corrosion or rot in wooden balconies can weaken their structural integrity.
• Improper Construction Practices: Balcony collapses may result from errors made during construction, such as poor welding, incorrect assembly, or the use of substandard materials.
• Design Deficiencies: Design flaws can lead to structural weaknesses in balconies, making them more susceptible to collapse. These may include inadequate support, insufficient reinforcement, or improper load calculations.
• Neglected Maintenance: Existing balconies can collapse if they are not properly maintained. Neglecting inspections and repairs can allow structural issues to worsen over time.
• Age-Related Failures: Older balconies may be more prone to collapse due to wear and tear over the years. The lack of upgrades or renovations can exacerbate structural problems.

Each type of balcony collapse presents unique challenges in terms of identifying the root causes, conducting investigations, and implementing preventive measures. Regular inspections, adherence to safety standards, and proper construction practices followed by general contractors and subcontractors can minimize the risks associated with balcony collapse accidents on construction sites across Texas.

Are you a victim of a structural collapse accident or seeking justice for a loved one? At Miller Weisbrod Olesky, we understand the devastation that such accidents can bring to families, and we are determined to fight for your rights.

Our dedicated team of structural collapse accident attorneys in Texas has a proven track record of multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts in construction accident cases. Let us be your voice for justice and ensure that those responsible are made to pay for their negligence. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards rebuilding your life.

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Clay has been consistently listed in Super Lawyers as one of the Best Lawyers in Texas, published in Texas Monthly, for over 15 years.

Clay is a past president of the Dallas Trial Lawyers’ Association and served as Chair of the Advocates for the Texas Trial Lawyer Association where he continues to serve on the board of directions. Clay is also a member of the elite American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) limited to a select group of trial lawyers who have tried to a jury verdict a significant number of cases and who are recognized for their professionalism.

Clay is regularly invited to speak to Trial Lawyer Groups around Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and across the state of Texas on the topics of construction accidents, trial tactics in complex construction cases and techniques to investigate and gather evidence in construction accidents, picking a jury in construction accident cases, as well as how to prepare a winning legal and trial strategy in Construction Accident Cases throughout Texas.

Our construction accident legal team includes Josh Birmingham, who is currently on the Dallas Trial Lawyers Board of Directors and served as the president of the Mesquite Bar Association for four years. Josh was named Thomson Reuters | Texas Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2016 and 2017.

We also have on our team Michael Orth, a board certified personal injury trial lawyer who has spent the last decade representing injured Texans and their families. Michael’s success in scores of personal injury cases across federal and state courtrooms has earned him the coveted Board Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Led by a formidable legal team with an extraordinary record of court verdicts and settlements in construction accident cases, Miller Weisbrod Olesky is regularly recognized by the US News and World Report as one of the top injury law firms in the United States.

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