Is The Balcony That You Are Standing On Really Safe?
I recently returned from a trip to visit my mother in Florida and upon exiting her condominium on the 11th floor, I leaned against the balcony only to find that it was loose and unsteady at its foothold. I became chilled when I remembered the facts of a case that I handled a few years ago involving a young mom who fell from her 4th floor balcony when the railing gave way. When you step on the balcony of a hotel or apartment, you would like to assume that it is safe to support you and that the railing is safe as well.
During spring break and holiday season many times balcony falls are fueled by alcohol and other improper behavior. However, a landlord or hotel operator owes a duty to make sure the premises are safe and that the balcony and railing are installed and maintained under the appropriate codes insuring one’s safety. A balcony is an obvious hazard and many states have regulations mandating that balcony railings must be at least 42 inches high, have no more than 4 inches of space between the rails, and be maintained in safe, proper, and secure order.
If you have a young child or are in an impaired state, be extra careful when on a balcony. Always check the fixation and security of the guard rail to make sure that it is safe. If it doesn’t look safe or feel right, immediately leave the balcony for safe surroundings and report your concerns to avoid the potential for a catastrophic accident.
The experienced Pennsylvania premise liability lawyers of Reiff and Bily have had significant experience representing those injured at hotels and apartments as a result of balcony falls or other premise liability situations.
