(212) 285-3300
Whether it be getting to your office, home, or doctor’s appointment, millions of people rely on elevators and escalators to get to their destination. When they work properly, you don’t think twice about hopping on one. When an elevator or escalator malfunctions, you may experience serious injuries that impact your life.
At Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, PLLC, we advocate for individuals who have been harmed due to an elevator or escalator accident. If you have suffered a personal injury, contact our New York City elevator and escalator accident attorneys today for a free consultation.
Common Types of Elevator Defects
Keeping an elevator up to code in NYC is necessary for safety, though many buildings fail to do so. Defects can arise, whether due to neglected maintenance or inspections:
- Malfunctioning pulley systems, which cause the elevator to drop down the elevator shaft
- Misaligned elevator causing a trip and fall hazard
- Abrupt landings and sudden stops, causing a risk of injury
- Power outages or mechanical failure
- Elevator lurching (sudden change in speed)
- Electrocution due to a faulty control panel or electrical issue
- Entrapment due to power failure or malfunctioning doors
- Irregular maintenance or improperly performed repairs
Common Types of Escalator Defects
While elevators pose significant risks, a faulty escalator is more likely to result in serious injuries since it is in constant motion. Common escalator defects that our firm has handled include:
- Missing or broken steps
- Missing or loose screws
- Missing teeth on the escalator track
- Improper or irregular maintenance
- Empty space between the escalator steps and walls, causing a risk of slip and falls
- Missing comb plates
- Faulty handrails
How to Establish Liability in an Elevator & Escalator Accident Case
Injuries alone are not enough to recover compensation in an elevator or escalator accident case. Proving the other party’s liability will depend on the following:
- Existence of a hazard: A dangerous condition existed
- The defendant had control of the property: The defendant owned, leased, or otherwise had control of the operation of the elevator or escalator
- Notice: The property owner was aware of the defect, should have been aware of the defect, or the defect was a recurring issue
- Causation: The hazard or defect was the direct cause of your injuries
Evidence is Key in an Elevator or Escalator Accident Case
Premises liability cases, such as elevator or escalator accidents, rely on strong evidence. This often includes surveillance footage, incident reports, maintenance records, and eyewitness accounts. Collecting this evidence immediately is crucial, since property owners move quickly to dispose of such information to limit liability.
At Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, PLLC, our New York City injury lawyers know what information to present to insurers to obtain maximum compensation. Our legal team prepares each case with the assumption that it may go to trial. This level of preparation allows us to negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf.
Contact Our Elevator & Escalator Accident Lawyers Today
No one should be left with medical bills or lost wages following an elevator or escalator accident. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective elevator or escalator, Lipsig Freund & Wisell, PLLC, would like to assist you. To arrange your free consultation with one of our New York City elevator and escalator accident attorneys, contact us online or by calling (212) 285-3300.