The Incident
Jon Sandberg was visiting a friend’s apartment when a seemingly ordinary moment turned into a serious accident. While leaning back on the deck railing during a conversation, the railing gave way, causing Jon to fall several feet to the ground below. The fall left Jon with a concussion and a significant shoulder injury, resulting in medical bills totaling $25,359.36. Keep reading to learn more about this jury verdict for a client injured by an unsafe deck railing.
What should have been a safe and relaxing visit turned into a painful and distressing experience due to the negligence of the property owner.
Unique Case Challenges
This case centered on the property owner, Thuan Nguyen, and his responsibility to maintain a safe environment for tenants and their guests. During the lawsuit, we argued that Mr. Nguyen either knew or should have known about the dangerous condition of the deck railing and failed to take appropriate steps to repair it or warn others of the hazard.
Mr. Nguyen claimed he was unaware of the railing’s condition, asserting that the damage was hidden beneath a coat of paint. However, through thorough questioning during depositions and trial testimony, Mr. Nguyen admitted that he personally painted the railing, exposing a lack of inspection or proper maintenance of the property.
The defendant also revealed that he had never conducted inspections of the deck railings on this property—or any other properties he owned. This lack of oversight and neglect of basic safety measures formed the crux of our argument, demonstrating that the accident was entirely preventable.
Our Approach to the Case
Mark Cantor and Brian Winebright meticulously built a strong case to hold Mr. Nguyen accountable. We presented evidence showing:
- The property owner’s lack of routine inspections and maintenance.
- The preventable nature of the accident had the property been properly cared for.
- The serious injuries and medical expenses Jon incurred as a direct result of the fall.
Through strategic cross-examination, we highlighted inconsistencies in the defendant’s testimony and emphasized his disregard for tenant and guest safety.
The Trial and Outcome – Jury Verdict for Client Injured by Unsafe Deck Railing
After a two-day jury trial in St. Louis County, the jury found Mr. Nguyen 100% at fault for the failure of the deck railing. They awarded $100,000 to Jon Sandberg to compensate him for his injuries, medical expenses, and the pain and suffering he endured.
This verdict sent a clear message: property owners must prioritize safety and take responsibility for maintaining their premises.
How Cantor Injury Law Can Help You
At Cantor Injury Law, we specialize in premises liability cases, ensuring that property owners who fail to maintain safe conditions are held accountable for their negligence. If you or someone you love has been injured due to unsafe property conditions, contact Cantor Injury Law today for a free consultation. We will fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
