Elevators and escalators can usually be found in any building that has more than one floor. This leads many people to use them every day. While these machines are not usually thought of as dangerous, serious accidents can happen in the event that they malfunction. This may occur if they are not properly taken care of. When these accidents happen, cause significant injuries such as crushed limbs, broken bones, and brain injuries. Victims of these accidents often wish to pursue legal action to receive justice for their suffering. This can be done with the assistance of an experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorney.
Common Types of Accidents
Running an efficient elevator or escalator involves plenty of moving parts and complex machinery. If they are not made correctly or tended to properly, malfunctions can occur that lead to dangerous accidents. Some of the most common accidents can include but are not limited to:
- Between-step entrapments
- Gaps and spaces
- Inadequate lighting
- Loose or missing screws
- Improperly working emergency buttons
- Faulty handrails
- Missing steps
- Electrical or mechanical malfunctions
- Design flaws
- Finger entrapments
Who is Liable?
In order to understand what party is liable for an elevator or escalator accident, it is important to be aware of the differences between premises and product liability. Under premises liability law, property owners are required to provide a safe premises for those who come onto their grounds. If they fail to oblige and an accident occurs as a result, the property owner can be held liable. In order for the injured party to prove negligence, they must show that the property owner was aware, or should have been aware, of the hazard and did not fix it.
Alternatively, product liability can hold manufacturers and companies liable for accidents. In order for elevators and escalators to function, the machinery must be created properly. If a mistake is made due to negligence during production, malfunctions can occur that cause serious injuries. In the event that a manufacturer’s negligence causes an accident, the injured party can hold them liable.
Recovering Compensation
If the injured party successfully proves negligence, they may be able to recover compensation. This exists as coverage for any damages stemming from the incident. Coverage may be received for the following injuries:
- Concussions
- Cuts and bruises
- Torn ligaments
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Joint injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
Contact our Firm
Friedman Schuman Layser is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. We proudly serve clients facing a wide range of legal matters. If you require the services of an effective attorney, please contact Friedman Schuman Layser today to schedule a consultation.
