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At Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, PLLC, our New York City personal injury attorneys have been fighting for accident victims for decades—delivering proven results and dedicated legal representation in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.

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Can I File a Personal Injury Claim for an Elevator Accident in NYC?

March 02, 2026

| Personal Injury

Elevators are an essential part of daily life in New York City. The NYC Department of Buildings estimates that the city has between 70,000 and 84,000 elevators, completing over a billion rides through NYC buildings each year. While most operate safely, malfunctions and maintenance failures can cause serious injuries.

If you were hurt in an elevator accident, you may be wondering whether you have the right to file a personal injury claim. In many situations, injured victims can pursue compensation if the accident happened because of unsafe conditions or negligent maintenance. At Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, our attorneys regularly represent injured victims through our New York personal injury practice and help them understand their legal options.

How Elevator Accidents Happen in NYC

Elevator accidents may seem rare, but they occur more often than many people realize. At the national level, about 17,000 people are seriously injured by elevators each year.

In New York City, elevators must comply with strict safety rules enforced by the NYC Department of Buildings. Common causes of elevator injuries include:

Even small malfunctions can cause significant injuries if passengers lose balance or become trapped.

Property Owners Have a Duty to Maintain Elevators

Under New York law, building owners must keep their property reasonably safe for tenants and visitors. Elevators are considered critical building systems, which means owners must inspect and maintain them regularly.

The NYC Department of Buildings requires routine elevator inspections and maintenance to prevent dangerous malfunctions. When these inspections are skipped or problems are ignored, dangerous conditions can develop.

Who May Be Responsible for an Elevator Injury?

Elevator accident claims often involve more than one responsible party. Determining liability requires a careful investigation of how the accident occurred. Potentially liable parties may include:

Each party has different responsibilities when it comes to elevator safety.

For instance, building owners must ensure elevators receive regular inspections. Maintenance companies must properly repair known issues. Manufacturers may be responsible if defective parts caused the malfunction.

Evidence That Can Strengthen an Elevator Injury Claim

Evidence plays a critical role in any personal injury case. Elevator accidents often leave behind detailed documentation that can help establish liability. Important evidence may include:

These records can reveal whether safety rules were ignored or whether known hazards were left unresolved.

Even with strict elevator regulations in NYC, accidents happen, especially when building owners aren’t diligent about inspections and repairs. If any party has been negligent in adhering to these standards, you may have a claim for your elevator accident.

At Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, we examine inspection records, maintenance contracts, and accident reports to determine who may be responsible. Discuss your legal options with one of our attorneys today by calling us at (212) 285-3300 or using our online form.