Average Value of a Roof Collapse in Texas

A roof collapse happens without warning, often leaving those in its way unable to escape safely. The injuries suffered in these tragedies can be catastrophic.

Roof collapses can occur in homes, offices, shopping malls, supermarkets, restaurants, and construction sites. Survivors of a roof collapse may face a long road to recovery.

They may have medical bills and be unable to work while they recover. These financial stresses may lead the injured person to file a claim for compensation against the responsible party. 

But what is the average value of a settlement for a roof collapse? Compensation from a roof collapse claim varies and depends on several factors, including the victim’s medical costs, the extent of their injuries, and the accident’s impact on their life.

Read on to learn more about the factors involved in determining the average value of a roof collapse claim and what an injured person may be able to recover. 

What Compensation Can I Get for My Injuries? 

Determining the value of your potential roof collapse settlement requires calculating your damages. Victims injured in accidents in Texas are generally entitled to recover economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages are calculable losses stemming from an injury and include the following: 

• Medical expenses; 
• Lost wages;
• Loss of future earnings, and 
• Property damage.

Tangible evidence like invoices, pay stubs, and bills can support your economic damages claim and help your attorney to calculate these losses accurately. 

Non-economic damages cover psychological and emotional losses from the accident or injury. Common types of non-economic damages include the following: 

• Pain and suffering;
• Emotional distress; 
• Loss of consortium; 
• Loss of enjoyment of life, and 
• Permanent injury or disfigurement.

These damages aim to compensate victims for the subjective ways an injury disrupts their quality of life. 

Common Injuries After a Roof Collapse 

The type and extent of your injury can impact your potential settlement amount. Common injuries after a roof collapse include the following: 

• Traumatic brain injuries; 
• Brain bleeds;
• Neck fractures; 
• Spinal cord injuries, 
• Severe lacerations and bruises; 
• Broken bones;
• Permanent disabilities, and 
• Death.

You may feel lost after experiencing traumatic injuries and not know what to do next. A personal injury attorney can explain how to obtain compensation for these and other injuries. 

The Average Value of a Settlement for a Roof Collapse 

The average value of a roof collapse settlement varies by case. Several factors impact ceiling collapse settlements. These factors may include:

• The severity of your injuries;
• The responsible party’s insurance coverage and limits;
• The evidence supporting your claims;
• How your injuries affect the quality of your life; and 
• Your ability to work. 

Many other case-specific issues can impact the value of your claim. A personal injury attorney can review how these factors apply to your case to determine your potential settlement value.

Once you and your attorney estimate the value of your case, you will typically engage in settlement discussions with the responsible party.

As you struggle to make ends meet after your injury, initial offers from insurance companies or other responsible parties may be enticing. Your injuries may make it impossible to work despite mounting medical expenses.

However, don’t accept an initial settlement offer unless you understand the extent of your losses and what factors might affect your case. Speak with a personal injury attorney to assess your potential settlement value first.

What is an Indication of a Possible Roof Collapse?

There are many reasons why a roof collapse can occur. The roof could be old, constructed poorly, or some other reason. Knowing the signs of a potential collapse can keep you and your family safe. 

Sagging or Dipping

Take a good look at your roof from outside your home. Is the roof line sagging or dipping down? That could mean there’s too much weight, making it buckle in specific areas. You can easily spot sagging if you have a low-slope or flat roof. Water could be pooling in the problem area. If you have a pitched roof, you might not be able to see a sagging issue as easily. Call a professional if you have any reason to believe something is wrong.

Cracked Materials

Do you see any signs of cracking or splitting anywhere along your roofline? If so, that’s another telltale sign a collapse may be about to happen. Cracks in tiles or shingles could mean something is causing a great deal of stress to your roof, and you could be at risk. Cracks can allow moisture to seep into the underlayment, increasing the chances of a roof collapse.

Water Damage

Look for any indications of leaks or water damage inside your home. Are your walls or ceilings discolored? Do you notice peeling wallpaper or paint? These are signs water has seeped into your home, and your roof could be compromised.

Unusual Noises or Sounds

It’s not uncommon to occasionally hear slight cracking sounds in many areas of Texas. Shifting soils in our state can affect a home’s foundation, leading to that disturbing noise. But if you hear a lot of popping or cracking, that could mean your home is at risk of a roof collapse due to unusual strain. 

Roof Support Damage

If your roof has broken structural components such as trusses or rafters, that could also be a sign your roof is compromised. The reason could be too much weight or some structural deterioration is occurring. Check your crawlspace or attic to see if you can spot signs of roof support damage. 

Potential Insurance Exclusions After a Roof Collapse

Insurance companies often put exclusions in a homeowners policy so they don’t have to pay in certain situations leading to a roof collapse. For example, if an architect made a mistake or omission that contributed to the collapse, the insurer might not pay for the damage. Likewise, if a construction company cut corners and used inferior materials or a repair company committed errors, your insurer may refuse to pay your claim.

But that doesn’t mean you won’t have recourse. You could make a claim against the architect, construction or roofing company, or someone else whose negligence led to the roof collapse.

An experienced Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP insurance claims attorney can investigate to determine why the collapse occurred and pursue compensation from all liable parties. They’ll not only fight to get the money needed for repairs, but also to cover repairs or replacements for any possessions you’ve lost. We will pursue every angle to help you get what you deserve.

Contact Us 

At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, we are advocates. We never view our clients as just another case. We understand that you have been wronged and need our help. Our attorneys possess a solid and diverse body of expertise and experience.

We are prepared to handle many types of personal injury claims, including roof collapse cases. We have dedicated our careers to fighting to protect the rights of injured victims.

Our consultations are always free, and we do not charge a fee unless you recover compensation. Contact us today by phone or email to request a case evaluation.