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An Overview of Elevator and Escalator Accidents
Annually, many elevator and escalator accidents are reported, leading to severe injuries and even fatalities. [1] These accidents are primarily attributed to factors such as sudden stops, faulty equipment, and inadequate maintenance.
The potential risks and dangers associated with elevator and escalator accidents are significant. Sudden stops can cause passengers to lose their balance and suffer serious injuries. Faulty equipment, including elevator doors, escalator steps, and safety devices, can result in entrapment and even falls.
Elevator accidents can involve collapsing steps, sudden drops, or escalator steps malfunctioning. These accidents can cause broken bones, severe injuries, and fatalities.
Types of Injuries Commonly Seen in Elevator and Escalator Accidents
Elevator and escalator accidents can result in a wide range of injuries. Here are some of the most common types of injuries seen in these accidents:
- Broken Bones: The sudden stops or falls associated with elevator and escalator accidents can often lead to fractures or broken bones. Depending on the severity, these injuries may require surgery, immobilization, and lengthy rehabilitation. In some cases, victims may experience long-term disabilities or joint complications.
- Severe Head Injuries: Elevator accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries, resulting in long-lasting cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments. Head injuries can range from concussions to more severe conditions like hemorrhages or skull fractures. Recovery from these injuries can be challenging and may require extensive medical treatment.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Sudden stops, malfunctioning doors, or defective equipment can result in falls or abrupt movements that cause trauma to the spinal cord. These injuries may require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and significant adjustments to the affected individual's lifestyle.
- Amputation: Escalators, while providing convenience and efficiency, can also pose a risk for amputations if safety precautions are not taken or if mechanical malfunctions occur. These accidents can result in the loss of limbs, causing significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges for the victims.
- Crush Injuries: In accidents where individuals are trapped or crushed between moving parts, crush injuries can occur. These injuries can cause severe tissue and organ damage, requiring immediate medical intervention and potentially leading to amputations or disabilities.
- Lacerations: Elevator accidents can result in deep cuts or lacerations due to broken glass, sharp edges, or entrapment. These fatal injuries may lead to scarring and require medical treatment such as stitches or reconstructive surgery.
Causes of Elevator and Escalator Accidents
Elevator and escalator accidents can occur due to various causes, many of which stem from factors such as improper maintenance, communication failure, faulty elevator wiring, and unbalanced leveling.
- Improper Maintenance - Improper maintenance is a significant contributor to these accidents. When elevators and escalators are not regularly inspected and serviced, mechanical failures or malfunctions can occur, increasing the risk of accidents. Negligent maintenance practices, such as inadequate lubrication or improper hoist cable maintenance, can compromise the safety of these systems.
- Communication Failure - Communication failure between the control systems and the components of elevators and escalators can lead to accidents. For instance, if the control system fails to receive a signal to stop or properly control the movement, it can result in sudden stops, drops, or jolts.
- Faulty Wiring - Electrical components in elevators and escalators can malfunction when the wiring system is not properly installed or maintained. This can lead to electrical shocks, fire hazards, or other dangerous situations.
- Unbalanced Leveling - Where the elevator or escalator does not align correctly with the floor at each stop, can cause individuals to trip or fall when entering or exiting the device. This can be due to issues with the leveling mechanisms or sensors that ensure proper alignment.
Related Information
Responsible Parties in an Escalator Accident
In the unfortunate event of an escalator accident, there are several parties that may be held responsible. Each party’s negligence or actions can contribute to the accident in different ways.
- Property Owners - Building owners have a duty to ensure the safety of their premises and the equipment within them. They may be held responsible if they fail to properly maintain, inspect, or repair the elevator, leading to a dangerous condition that may also lead to elevator injuries.
- Maintenance Companies - Maintenance companies play a major role in ensuring the safe operation of escalators and elevators. If these companies neglect their duties or perform poor maintenance, such as failing to regularly lubricate or perform elevator inspections, their negligence can contribute to elevator malfunctions.
- Elevator Manufacturers - Elevator manufacturers have a responsibility to design and manufacture escalators that meet safety standards. If a design flaw or manufacturing defect is found to be the cause of an accident, the manufacturer may be held liable for the elevator accident injuries suffered.
- Maintenance Personnel - Negligent maintenance personnel who are directly responsible for the day-to-day upkeep of the escalator can also be held accountable. If these individuals fail to perform their duties on a regular basis or overlook safety protocols, they can be held liable for any accidents that occur due to their negligence.
Reasons to Hire an Elevator and Escalator Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in an elevator or escalator accident, it’s essential to seek the assistance of our experienced elevator accident attorneys at Goldberg & Loren. Here are key reasons why hiring our firm is in your best interest:
Legal Expertise:
Elevator accidents fall under personal injury claims, which can be complex legal processes. Our personal injury lawyers specialize in personal injury law and have the necessary expertise to navigate these claims effectively.
Establishing Liability:
Determining liability in elevator accidents can be challenging, as multiple parties may be involved, including property owners, maintenance companies, and elevator manufacturers. Our experienced attorneys have the knowledge and resources to investigate the incident thoroughly and establish liability on behalf of our clients.
Determining Responsible Parties:
Identifying the responsible parties is necessary for a successful personal injury claim.
Our personal injury attorneys have the experience to identify all potentially liable parties involved in the accident, ensuring that you seek compensation from all appropriate sources.
Negotiating Fair Compensation:
When dealing with insurance companies and responsible parties, having legal representation significantly increases your chances of receiving fair compensation. Our lawyers are skilled negotiators who will fight for your rights and strive to get maximum compensation.
Have You Been Injured in an Elevator or Escalator Accident in New York City?
At Goldberg & Loren law firm, we have the top elevator accident lawyers in the city. With our extensive experience and expertise in this area, we are dedicated to helping victims like you receive the compensation you deserve.
Our legal team has a proven track record of successfully representing victims and obtaining fair settlements. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today for a free consultation. Don’t wait another moment to seek the justice and financial compensation you deserve.
Source:
[1] Road traffic injuries. (2022, June 20). www.who.int. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/road-traffic-injuries
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
5 Columbus Cir Suite 1501
New York, NY 10019
(646) 719-0444
If you or someone you know has been hurt in an elevator or escalator incident in NYC, our personal injury attorneys are ready to support you and help obtain the rightful compensation you deserve. Reach out to us now for a free consultation.
