Close

Bar Liable for Death Caused by Stairway That Violated Building Codes

Commercial properties, such as bars and restaurants, should be held liable when their actions lead to injury or even death. When a commercial establishment is responsible for such a tragedy, there may be multiple ways under the law to hold them accountable, as seen in the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court case of Klairmont v. Gainsboro Restaurant, Inc.

A tragic fall

In Klairmont, a college student went to a bar with friends and was served two beers. At one point, the student sought a quiet space to receive a phone call and walked out of the main bar into a hallway. Unbeknownst to the student a downward staircase to the basement adjoined the hallway.

However, the presence of the stairs was obscured by hanging vinyl strips. As he walked to receive the call, the student lost his balance and fell down the stairs. He was later discovered lying on the floor at the bottom of the staircase. He died two days later due to a skull fracture and related injuries from the fall.

His family brought a wrongful death action; in addition, they alleged that the stairs were defective in violation of numerous provisions of the state building code and that these violations were unfair or deceptive conduct upon which suit could be brought.

At trial, the judge held that the bar was in violation of the building code and that the student had suffered the fatal injury because the stairs were unsafe and defective, having been built and rebuilt without the necessary building permits. The judge awarded more than $6 million in damages. The bar appealed.

Was the bar's conduct "unfair and deceptive" under the law?

On appeal, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court found that the basement at the bar contained hazards that were violations of the building code, including the fact that there was no door at the top of the staircase and no landing at the top of the staircase. The kitchen manager had notified one owner that the stairs needed to be fixed or someone would get hurt.

The bar's conduct was "unfair" within the meaning of the law, as they had knowingly violated the building code for more than 20 years, thereby creating hazardous conditions in a place open to the public where alcohol was served. The conduct was also "deceptive" in that if the student or others had known of the highly dangerous conditions, they might have taken their business elsewhere.

Although the damages award would need to be reviewed by the lower court in light of the court's findings, the Supreme Judicial Court held that the family was entitled to recover damages to the extent that the student would have been able to recover on the claim, if he had still been alive.

Fighting on your behalf

If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence or recklessness of another party, you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable under any and all provisions of the law that are applicable to the situation. Seek an attorney who will do what is necessary to fight for your ability to recover for the loss of your loved one.


Client Reviews
★★★★★
Could not have been happier with Attorney Peter Bellotti and everyone at Bellotti Law Group. I had a very difficult case, but Peter was relentless. He saved me and my family, big time, when the situation looked very bad. I was recommended to Peter and was told he was the best attorney in Boston and now I see why, 100%. Thank you Peter! John F.
★★★★★
I was referred to Attorney Bellotti by a friend who works at Harvard University. I was really nervous at the beginning of my case but Peter kept me calm and was very reassuring and even gave me his cell phone number to text or call him if I really needed to get in touch with him asap… My case went extremely well and my family and I could not have been more please. I highly recommend Attorney Peter Bellotti. Beth A.
★★★★★
Attorney Bellotti assisted me in a Magistrate matter in Palmer District Court. He was very professional, knowledgeable, had excellent communication skills, well prepared, and new how to handle the situation. I would highly recommend Attorney Bellotti for any litigation matters and he gets the job done. Arlon B.
★★★★★
When looking for an attorney I didn't think have to think twice about who to call to protect my future. Peter Bellotti's amazing reputation made it an easy decision for who to call. He went above and beyond in my case, returning phone calls promptly, answering all my questions to ease my mind, and being a very understanding caring person. Patrick
★★★★★
I was on a case with Peter that spanned over a year and a half. Peter was very accommodating and set early expectations which helped get through this time period. Peter's professionalism helped keep me calm during this full time period. It was a pleasure getting to know Peter and if I ever need another lawyer in and around Boston Peter would be my go to choice hands down. Kyle
Contact Us
Start Chat