Question about retaining wall construction...

[EGiner]

Hello, I wanted to get your opinion about the construction of this retaining wall that collapsed in California due to rain.

Here is a video of the complete wall...

https://abc7.com/amp/la-habra-wall-collapse-orange-county-storm-damage/14389204/

Thank you in advance for your opinions...

E Giner

 

[BridgeSmith]

Obviously, it wasn't sufficient for the loading in its current condition. Not enough information to say more.

 

[DoubleStud]

Not properly designed and probably not properly drained.

 

[PEinc]

Looks like a pretty tall, thin, block wall with no additional lateral support.

http://www.PeirceEngineering.com

 

[DoubleStud]

You cant even see rebar sticking out at the break. They should have built it with counterforts every a few feet and better horizontal reinforcement. Concrete would be wiser.

 

[EGiner]

I believe you guys are right, it looks like there is not drainage neither, the lady on the video is trying to get paid for her loss but the building allege that is not their fault but a natural cause, saying that they are not responsible for the event. The lady is a humble Uber driver with only liability insurance...

 

[BridgeSmith]

Like it or not, if the failure was due to an extraordinary event, then the owner of the wall may not be responsible for the damages. That will likely have to be sorted out in court.

If the car owner was 'on the clock' driving for Uber, their insurance may cover it.