if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
(OP)
legally what am i liable for if i was not the one who stamped the drawings?
this is just hypothetical. but i sometimes worry about the structures i design. specially in my field where i usually connect to existing structures.
this is just hypothetical. but i sometimes worry about the structures i design. specially in my field where i usually connect to existing structures.





RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
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RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
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RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
If your firm goes down in a ball of flames, then it could get dicey because they could go after your, but very doubtful that anyone would spend on litigation to sue a non PE who probably doesn't have much in the way of assets (no offense).
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
Having someone else stamp the drawing does not give one the right to pass off any responsibility for one's work.
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
Even if you are not licensed, you are responsible for anything you do. If you are passing yourself as a "designer" or an engineer, be ready to be accounted for your 'designs'.
Rafiq Bulsara
http://www.srengineersct.com
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
With thorough design and diligent site supervision and as the engineer responsible you take all adequate measures top ensure that all design assumptions are quantified then your structure won't fail.
If your structure does fail then you can be sure that there will to a lawyer trying to convict the jury that you are negligent.
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
What they really go after is the money, and the suits start dropping until the plaintiff finds who has the (deepest) money-bags and hones in on that target.
I've known Engineers that "freelance" and have no pro. liability ins. As for me, I could NEVER operate that way - all that stuff scares that dog snot out of me....
Their rationale, if something goes wrong, don't be a target, if you have something to sue over, then you will get sued (of course they have "other" asset protection). Afterall, a lawsuit is like any other monetary endeavor - you want to minimize effort and maxmize return. If they know they can't get anything from you, they probably will spare the expense and focus effort elsewhere.
Of course there are other things besides a lawsuit that could hurt you, like losing your reputation and/or your license (P.E. OR E.I.). Depending on the state's rules/laws, even if you don't stamp your drawing, you could still be liable as the P.E. of Record, AND (in at least two one states where I was registered) it is actually a misdemeanor to produce and issue an unstamped drawing!! In one of these states, the board operates an Inspector General's Office that investigates stamping issues, and has legal authority to press charges on anyone breaking the board's laws. They accept anonymous tips too, which means if your drawings/docs are not properly stamped/sealed and your competion gets them, they can turn you in! Yes, the engineering business can get that cut-throat - It's a Geek eat Geek world out there.....
My approach, if I work for a company I make sure I understand the liability coverage. Some companies don't cover you if you're "contract." I don't "freelance" or "rubber-stamp", and I'm asked to do so all the time. I simply say NO and walk away.... I always do my best and strive to learn and continuously improve my skills, this in conjuction with a strong code of ethics is the best "suit prevention" insurance for the money. Use this approach in addition to good liability coverage and you should be fine.
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
Primary responsibility lies with the signatory who took professional responsibility for the work by approving or stamping it. But if you are the source of the error, and your supervisor/signatory engineer misses it, there WILL be consequences for you...
RE: if i designed a structure that collapse/fail
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