Elevator and Escalator Accidents: Understanding Your Legal Rights
Elevator or escalator accidents due to the negligence of the building owner
Elevators and escalators are a common mode of transportation in modern buildings and are essential to the smooth functioning of daily life. While these machines are designed to be safe and reliable, accidents can still occur due to the negligence of building owners or operators. If you have been involved in an elevator or escalator accident that was caused by someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses.
Building owners and operators have a legal obligation to maintain their elevators and escalators in a safe and functional condition. This includes conducting regular inspections, repairing any hazards or malfunctions, and ensuring that the machines are in compliance with relevant safety regulations. When these obligations are not met, building owners and operators can be held liable for any accidents that occur as a result.
Some common causes of elevator and escalator accidents include:
Mechanical failures: Elevators and escalators can suffer from mechanical failures, such as breakdowns, malfunctions, or jams, which can cause serious accidents.
Neglect: Building owners and operators have a legal obligation to maintain their elevators and escalators in good working condition. Neglecting to conduct regular inspections, make repairs, or replace worn out parts can increase the risk of accidents.
Improper use: Many elevator and escalator accidents are caused by passengers who use the machines improperly, such as jumping on or off the moving steps, or attempting to force the doors open.
Poor design or construction: Elevators and escalators that are poorly designed or constructed are more likely to be involved in accidents. This may include inadequate safety features, such as handrails or emergency brakes, or a lack of proper safety signage.
If you have been involved in an elevator or escalator accident due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. Some of the damages that may be recoverable include:
Medical expenses: This includes the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and any future medical expenses related to the accident.
Lost income: If you have had to take time off work due to your injuries, you may be able to recover the wages and benefits you have lost as a result.
Pain and suffering: You may be entitled to compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you have experienced as a result of the accident.
Punitive damages: In some cases, building owners and operators may be found to have acted with intentional disregard for safety or with reckless disregard for the consequences of their actions. In these cases, you may be able to recover punitive damages, which are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.
If you have been involved in an elevator or escalator accident, it is important to seek legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, investigate the circumstances of the accident, and build a strong case for compensation.
At Doucet Co., LPA, we have extensive experience representing clients who have been involved in elevator and escalator accidents. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the law and will work tirelessly to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (888) 200-9824 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your legal options.