Long Beach Ramp Injury Attorney
Ramps, whether wheelchair ramps, construction site ramps, or truck loading ramps, can cause people to lose their balance and fall. These ramps can pose a tripping hazard, leading to serious injuries.
If you’ve been hurt by using a faulty ramp, McGee, Lerer & Associates is here to help. We understand the challenges of navigating legal claims after such accidents. Our experienced team is ready to assist you with your case, providing guidance and support every step of the way. Reach out to us to discuss your options and begin your path to recovery.
Our ramp injury legal team is here to help in Long Beach and beyond. Schedule a free consultation with us today by calling (562) 270-0546.
What Makes a Ramp Unsafe or Dangerous?
Here are just some ways that people can get hurt on a ramp that they trust to let them walk safely:
- Neglect
Continued ramp maintenance is crucial. A neglected ramp may have nails sticking up, or it could fail to support people. - Imbalance
An off-center walking space, especially one on an incline, presents numerous hazards. - Rotten Wood
The walkway might have holes or crumbling edges, which can catch a person's foot or weaken the entire structure. - Poor Construction
- The walkway may lack solid, stable materials, leading to an unstable surface.
- A ramp that is too steep makes safe navigation difficult, especially for those in wheelchairs.
- The absence of friction strips could make a ramp slippery, resulting in dangerous footing or poor traction for wheelchairs.
- Missing Handrails
By themselves, ramps can offer little to no support, increasing the risk of falls. - Insufficient Lighting
Poorly lit ramps conceal hazards, further complicating safe use.
ADA Ramp Requirements
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) outlines strict requirements for ramp construction. Ramps must accommodate individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and other mobility aids.
Property owners must comply with the following ADA guidelines to avoid violations and liability claims:
- Slope Requirements
The maximum slope allowed is 1:12. For every 12 inches of ramp length, there is a 1-inch rise, equating to an 8.33% slope. - Width Requirements
Ramps must be at least 36 inches wide for residential properties and 48 inches wide for commercial properties. - Railing Requirements
Handrails are mandatory on both sides for any ramp with a rise over 6 inches. These handrails must cover the entire ramp and measure between 34 inches and 38 inches above the ramp surface. - Surface Requirements
The ramp’s surface must remain firm, stable, and slip-resistant. - Landing Requirements
Each ramp requires a level landing at both the top and bottom. - Inspection Requirements
Regular inspections are necessary to check for wear and tear.
A Property Owner’s Liability for Injury on a Ramp
A property is responsible for regularly inspecting ramps for potential hazards, and they must address any deficiencies promptly. If a property owner knows or should be aware that a ramp poses a tripping hazard, they bear liability for injuries resulting from that ramp.
This “duty of care” to maintain safe premises includes:
- Installing proper lighting
- Repairing uneven surfaces
- Replacing damaged materials
- Making sure the ramp meets ADA requirements
Failure to follow these standards exposes property owners to legal claims and financial accountability for any resulting injuries.
Compensation in a Ramp Injury Claim
If you’ve been hurt by a faulty ramp, you could receive various types of compensation. These financial damages help address the impacts of your accident.
In a ramp injury claim, you could receive money for:
- Medical Expenses
You could be repaid for all medical bills related to the injury. Such compensation can include hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment. - Pain and Suffering
These damages cover the physical pain and emotional distress you've endured as a result of the injury. - Loss of Enjoyment of Life
A ramp injury could impact your ability to enjoy life and inhibit your participation in activities you once enjoyed. Financial compensation addresses those losses. - Disability and Disfigurement
If the accident results in any long-term disability or visible disfigurement, you may seek compensation for these life-altering changes. - Lost Wages and Future Earnings
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost wages. Compensation is also available if you have a reduced capacity to work, or the injury forces you to change careers.
For top-quality representation in your ramp injury case, trust McGee, Lerer & Associates to be there for you. You can contact our Long Beach team online to set up a free consultation.
Why Choose McGee, Lerer & Associates?
What Makes Us Different
-
Four Convenient LocationsWe have 4 offices in Southern California - Los Angeles, Pasadena, Santa Monica & Long Beach
-
24/7 AvailabilityWe can be available nights and weekends and come to you at the hospital or at home.
-
No Fees Unless We WinIf we are unsuccessful in our efforts to recover your compensation, you owe nothing. Learn more here.
-
Individual AttentionWe take the time to understand all the unique factors of your case to achieve the best results.