Vehicle Accidents
Personal Injury
Home - Practice Areas - Premises Liability - Structural Defects
Purchasing a new home or investing in a commercial property should represent the exciting realization of a dream, not the beginning of a costly and stressful nightmare caused by issues like cracking foundations, water intrusion, or other forms of faulty construction. At The Piri Law Firm, we intimately understand the immense emotional stress and significant financial burden that structural defects can place on property owners. We firmly believe that you shouldn’t have to shoulder that heavy weight alone.
Our dedicated legal team specializes in navigating the often overwhelming technical and legal complexities inherent in construction litigation. We are committed to offering a personalized, client-focused approach that treats your individual case with the focused attention and urgency it rightfully deserves. From the moment you engage our services, we are here to fiercely protect your rights, advocate on your behalf, and tirelessly work to secure the fair compensation you need to restore not only your property but also your invaluable peace of mind.
Michael Piri has a deep understanding of the complexities involved in structural defect cases. These types of accidents often require a thorough investigation into construction practices, building codes, and engineering standards. His expertise ensures that no detail is overlooked, and he can identify the liable parties—whether it’s a contractor, property owner, or manufacturer of defective materials.
Texas has specific laws and statutes that govern construction defects and personal injury claims. Michael Piri’s extensive knowledge of these laws allows him to navigate the legal system effectively. He understands the nuances of Texas statutes of limitations, liability laws, and building codes, which are critical in building a strong case for his clients.
Results matter when choosing an attorney. Michael Piri has a history of successfully representing clients in structural defect cases, securing fair settlements and verdicts. His track record demonstrates his ability to handle even the most challenging cases and achieve favorable outcomes for his clients.
Legal cases can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries or property damage caused by structural defects. Michael Piri is known for his compassionate and client-focused approach. He takes the time to listen to his clients, understand their unique situations, and tailor his legal strategy to meet their needs. His clear and consistent communication ensures that clients are always informed and confident in the process.
Whether negotiating with insurance companies or presenting a case in court, Michael Piri is a skilled advocate. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but his negotiation skills ensure that clients receive the compensation they deserve. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, he is fully prepared to take the case to trial and fight for justice.
Structural defect accidents can have devastating consequences, including serious injuries, financial strain, and emotional distress. Michael Piri understands the challenges his clients face and provides compassionate support throughout the legal process. He is committed to alleviating the burden on his clients so they can focus on recovery.
Structural defect cases often require input from experts such as engineers, architects, and construction professionals. Michael Piri has access to a network of trusted experts who can provide critical testimony and evidence to strengthen his clients’ cases.
Many personal injury attorneys, including Michael Piri, work on a contingency fee basis. This means clients don’t pay any legal fees unless he successfully recovers compensation for them. This approach ensures that legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
Michael Piri’s reputation as a dedicated and skilled attorney sets him apart. His clients often praise his professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes.
As a Texas-based attorney, Michael Piri has a strong understanding of the local courts, judges, and legal community. This local knowledge can be a significant advantage in navigating the legal system and advocating effectively for his clients.
Buildings, bridges, and parking garages are structures we trust every day. We assume they are built to be safe and secure. But when the fundamental design or construction of a structure is flawed, the consequences can be catastrophic. These failures, known as structural defects, can lead to serious accidents, causing severe injuries and even fatalities. Understanding your rights after such an incident in Texas is crucial.
This post will explain what structural defects are, their common causes, and the risks they present. We will also explore the legal options available to victims and why seeking professional legal advice is a critical next step.
A structural defect is a flaw or deficiency in a building or other structure that compromises its integrity. These defects can affect a building’s ability to withstand normal loads and environmental pressures, making it unsafe for occupants and the public. A defect can exist from the moment of construction or develop over time due to various factors.
These are not minor cosmetic issues like cracked paint or a leaky faucet. Structural defects threaten the core stability of the entire structure, creating a significant risk of collapse or partial failure.
Structural defects often stem from negligence at different stages of a project’s lifecycle. The primary causes can be traced back to design, materials, or construction.
Errors made during the initial architectural or engineering phase can create a foundation for failure. This could include miscalculations of load-bearing capacity, improper specifications for materials, or a design that doesn’t account for local environmental conditions like Texas’s expansive soil or extreme weather.
Even a perfect design can be undermined by mistakes during the building process. Contractors or subcontractors might cut corners to save time or money, leading to devastating outcomes. Examples include failing to follow blueprints, using improper construction techniques, or hiring unqualified workers who do not have the expertise to execute the design safely.
The materials used are just as important as the design itself. Using substandard or defective materials, such as weak concrete, faulty steel beams, or inappropriate fasteners, can compromise the entire structure. Sometimes, materials may have manufacturing defects that are not immediately apparent, leading to failure under stress.
The potential for harm from a structural defect is immense. A compromised building puts everyone in and around it at risk. The most severe outcome is a partial or total collapse, which can result in multiple serious injuries and deaths.
Other significant risks include:
Accidents caused by these defects can lead to life-altering injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal injuries.
Texas has seen its share of incidents linked to potential structural issues. For instance, concerns over building stability have led to evacuations and costly repairs in various cities. In one notable event, a parking garage partially collapsed in the Dallas area, raising questions about construction and maintenance standards. In another, a balcony collapse at a residential complex highlighted the dangers of both poor construction and lack of regular inspections. These incidents serve as stark reminders that structural failures are a real and present danger.
If you are injured due to a structural defect, Texas law provides a path to seek compensation. You may be able to file a personal injury claim against the parties responsible for the defect. Identifying these parties is a complex process, as liability could fall on one or more entities:
Proving liability requires a thorough investigation, expert testimony, and a deep understanding of premises liability and construction law. An experienced attorney can help gather evidence, such as construction plans, inspection reports, and witness statements, to build a strong case.
Navigating the aftermath of a structural defect accident is overwhelming. You are likely dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills. Pursuing a legal claim on your own against well-funded construction companies, property owners, and their insurance carriers is an uphill battle.
A qualified personal injury attorney can manage every aspect of your case. They will work to establish negligence, calculate the full extent of your damages—including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering—and fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Time is also a factor, as Texas has a statute of limitations that limits how long you have to file a claim.
If you or a loved one has been harmed in an accident caused by a suspected structural defect, do not wait. Contact a qualified attorney to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Taking swift action is the first step toward holding the responsible parties accountable and securing the resources you need to recover.
Michael Piri is known for his empathetic and personalized approach to each case. He ensures that every client receives individualized attention and support, making them feel valued and understood during challenging times.
Exclusively serving the Latino community, Michael Piri's fluency in Spanish and French allows him to communicate effectively with a diverse range of clients, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident throughout the legal process.
With a history of winning multiple personal injury cases, Michael Piri has demonstrated his ability to secure favorable outcomes for his clients, whether through settlements or litigation.
Michael Piri offers round-the-clock support and free 30-minute consultations, ensuring that clients can access legal guidance whenever they need it, without financial pressure upfront.
From car accidents to whiplash, truck accidents, and more, Michael Piri has extensive experience in handling various types of personal injury cases, making him a versatile and knowledgeable advocate for accident victims.
Your home, office, or favorite local shop should always feel like a safe place, a space where you can go about your day without a second thought about your well-being. We place our trust in the buildings we enter daily, believing they are constructed to meet safety codes, regularly inspected by professionals, and diligently maintained to prevent hazards. But when that trust is broken—when a ceiling suddenly collapses without warning, a balcony gives way under the weight of a few people, or a staircase crumbles beneath someone’s feet—the results can be catastrophic. In these moments, the safety we take for granted is replaced by chaos, confusion, and fear.
Injuries caused by structural defects are not only sudden but profoundly jarring and often life-altering. One moment, you’re enjoying a quiet moment on a balcony, walking down a hallway, or stepping confidently down a staircase, and the next, your entire world is upended. The physical pain is only one part of the ordeal. Mounting medical bills, time away from work, and the uncertainty of how this will impact your future can feel overwhelming and inescapable. And unlike a car crash, where the cause of the accident might be visible or immediately apparent, structural failures are shrouded in mystery. Why did this happen? Was it the result of shoddy construction, overlooked maintenance, or outright negligence? And most critically, who should be held responsible for this preventable tragedy?
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a building failure in Texas, it’s normal to feel lost, angry, and uncertain about where to turn. These cases are often complex, requiring not just an understanding of the law but also an ability to navigate the technical details of construction and maintenance practices. At Michael Piri Law, we specialize in uncovering the truth behind these tragic incidents. We’re dedicated to peeling back the layers of complexity to determine exactly what went wrong and identifying who should be held accountable. Was it a contractor who cut corners? A landlord who ignored critical repairs? A maintenance team that failed to act on visible warning signs? These are the questions we work tirelessly to answer.
We understand how daunting and overwhelming this process can feel, especially when you’re trying to recover from injuries and rebuild your life. That’s why we fight relentlessly to secure the compensation you deserve—not just to cover medical bills and lost wages, but to give you a sense of justice and clarity. You shouldn’t have to face this battle alone. At Michael Piri Law, we stand with you every step of the way, working to help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind. Your safety matters, and we’re here to make sure those responsible are held accountable.
Structural defects refer to flaws in a building’s design, construction, or maintenance that make it unsafe. These aren’t just minor cosmetic issues like peeling paint. These are critical failures that threaten the stability of the structure and the safety of the people inside.
Common examples of structural failures that lead to injury claims include:
When these accidents happen, the injuries are often severe. Broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage are unfortunately common. The physical pain is compounded by the emotional shock of being hurt in a place that was supposed to be secure.
Texas law regarding structural defects falls under the umbrella of premises liability. While the concept seems simple—property owners must keep their property safe—proving liability in court is incredibly complex.
One of the biggest hurdles is figuring out exactly who is to blame. It isn’t always just the building owner. Liability could lie with:
Michael Piri understands how to investigate the history of a building. We look at maintenance logs, construction permits, and inspection reports to pinpoint exactly where the failure occurred.
In Texas, it is not enough to show that you were hurt. You must prove that the responsible party knew—or should have known—about the defect and failed to act. This requires gathering substantial evidence. Photos of the scene, expert testimony from structural engineers, and witness statements are crucial.
Without a legal expert, valuable evidence can disappear quickly. Property owners may rush to “fix” the damage, effectively destroying the proof of their negligence.
After an accident, your focus is naturally on recovery. You are dealing with doctors, pain management, and missed work. The last thing you want to think about is a lawsuit. However, time is a critical factor in structural defect claims.
Statute of Limitations: Texas generally allows two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this window, you lose your right to seek compensation forever.
Preservation of Evidence: As mentioned, physical evidence changes. Wood rots further or gets replaced. Witnesses move away or forget details. The sooner you have legal representation, the sooner we can issue a letter of preservation to ensure the evidence is protected.
Insurance Tactics: Insurance companies for property owners are quick to act. They may offer you a quick settlement that seems generous but barely covers your initial medical bills. They count on you not knowing the full long-term cost of your injuries. Once you sign their release, you cannot ask for more money later.
At Michael Piri Law, we see our clients as people, not case numbers. We understand that a structural defect accident is a traumatic event that disrupts your entire life. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on healing.
Here is how we approach your case:
We don’t rely on the police report or the property owner’s word. We conduct our own independent investigation. We bring in industry experts—architects, engineers, and safety inspectors—to analyze the defect and explain exactly why it failed.
Insurance companies respect attorneys who are prepared to go to trial. We build every case as if it will see a courtroom. This preparation gives us leverage during negotiations, helping us secure settlements that truly cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The legal process can be confusing. We believe in transparency. You will always know where your case stands. We explain the laws in plain English, outline your options clearly, and give you the information you need to make the best decisions for your family.
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay us a dime unless we win your case. We believe that justice shouldn’t be reserved only for those who can afford expensive legal retainers.
A structural defect accident can leave you feeling vulnerable and unsure of the future. But you have rights. Property owners and construction companies must be held accountable when their negligence causes harm.
If you or someone you love has been injured due to a building defect in Texas, do not wait. Let us help you navigate this complex legal landscape. Contact Michael Piri Law today for a free, confidential consultation. We are ready to listen to your story and fight for the recovery you deserve.
Here’s a list of 10 common Structural Defects accident injuries in Texas, along with brief descriptions for each:
WhiplashA neck injury caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head during a collision. It often results in pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
Broken BonesFractures in arms, legs, ribs, or other bones due to the impact of the crash. Severity can range from minor cracks to complex breaks requiring surgery.
Head InjuriesIncludes concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) caused by the head striking a surface or sudden jolts. Symptoms can range from mild headaches to severe cognitive impairments.
Spinal Cord InjuriesDamage to the spinal cord that can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often have long-term or permanent effects on mobility and sensation.
Soft Tissue InjuriesDamage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, such as sprains or strains. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement.
Internal InjuriesDamage to internal organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs caused by blunt force trauma. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Cuts and LacerationsDeep cuts or wounds caused by broken glass, debris, or sharp objects during the crash. These injuries may require stitches or lead to scarring.
Chest InjuriesBruising, broken ribs, or damage to internal organs in the chest area, often caused by seatbelts or impact with the steering wheel.
BurnsCaused by fires, hot surfaces, or chemicals during the accident. Burns can range from minor to severe and may require skin grafts or long-term care.
Psychological InjuriesEmotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, which can develop after experiencing a car accident.
A structural defect accident occurs when a building or structure fails due to design flaws, poor construction, or material defects, leading to injuries or property damage. Examples include collapsing roofs, unstable staircases, or faulty balconies.
Structural defects can result from poor construction practices, substandard materials, design errors, lack of maintenance, or failure to comply with building codes. Texas's extreme weather, such as hurricanes or heat, can also exacerbate these issues.
Liability may fall on various parties, including property owners, contractors, architects, engineers, or manufacturers of defective materials. Determining liability often requires a thorough investigation.
Seek medical attention immediately, document the scene with photos or videos, report the incident to the property owner, and consult a personal injury attorney to understand your legal options.
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in some cases, punitive damages if gross negligence is involved.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, exceptions may apply, so it’s best to consult an attorney promptly.
To prove negligence, you must show that the responsible party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty (e.g., by failing to maintain the property), and that the breach directly caused your injuries.
Not always. Property owners are responsible if they knew or should have known about the defect and failed to address it. However, liability may also extend to builders, designers, or material suppliers.
Yes, Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
While not required, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly improve your chances of securing fair compensation. They can investigate the case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
The Piri Law Firm is dedicated to supporting individuals after an accident, providing legal advocacy and guidance to secure fair compensation and justice. While handling the legal complexities, we prioritize clients’ recovery and well-being, offering trusted support during challenging times.
Construction AccidentDog BitesElectrocutionElevator AccidentsEscalator AccidentsFalling ObjectsNegligent Security Incidents
Premises LiabilitySlip-and-Fall AccidentStructural DefectsSwimming Pool AccidentsToxic ExposuresTrip-and-Fall AccidentsUnsafe or Hazardous Conditions
Wrongful Death
AmputationBrain InjuriesBroken Bone InjuriesBurn InjuriesChest InjuriesCrush InjuriesEmotional InjuriesFacial InjuriesHerniated Disc InjuriesHip InjuriesInjury Types
Internal InjuriesKnee InjuriesLacerations and AbrasionsNerve Damage InjuriesPelvic InjuriesPsychological InjuriesShoulder InjuriesSoft Tissue InjuriesSpinal Cord InjuriesWhiplash
