Stairway and Railing Fall Claims in Wisconsin

Stairs that violate building codes — improper rise, missing handrails, poor lighting — provide strong evidence of negligence.

Code Violations as Evidence

Safe Place Statute

Wisconsin's Safe Place Statute (Wis. Stat. § 101.11) holds employers and property owners to a higher standard than ordinary negligence for the safety of frequenters and employees. Stairways in public buildings and workplaces must be reasonably safe.

Documenting the Defect

Photograph the stairs, measure if possible, and note lighting conditions before anything is repaired.