Tragic Balcony Fall Accident

A Gannon University student from Butler County has died following a recent fall from a fraternity house balcony in Erie, Pennsylvania. The student fell from a second-story balcony at the Alpha Phi Delta fraternity house. This is a tragic accident that leaves a community in mourning. More information regarding the accident can be found at WPXI.com.

Sadly, a number of people die or sustain serious injuries every year from balcony falls. Balcony falls have occurred at weddings, rental homes, hotels, and vacation properties. Balcony fall accidents are often not the fault of the victim. Frequently, there is an explanation for these accidents other than the victim was intoxicated or “horsing around.” Balcony falls may be caused by poor construction or failure to follow building codes.

Most building codes and human engineering standards mandate that a guardrail be not less than 42 inches in height. Many balcony free-falls occur when individuals are confronted with guardrails that are less than 40 inches in height. The accident victim my simply lean against a short guardrail and this shift in gravity may cause a person to fall over the guardrail. Serious injuries such as traumatic brain injury, broken bones, and paralysis can occur from any balcony fall.

A personal injury lawyer can recover damages for victims of balcony falls and their families, from the owner of the premises. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, and money for pain and suffering. The attorneys at Berger and Green have handled balcony fall cases. If you or someone you loved has been injured in a balcony fall, the attorneys at Berger and Green may be able to help. We understand that your injuries may be due to an unsafe or unmaintained balcony.