Philadelphia Elevator and Escalator Accident Lawyer

Injuries from a malfunctioning or broken escalator or elevator can be grounds for a premises liability injury claim or lawsuit. Negligence on the part of the property owner may exist if he or she failed to ensure that the premises they controlled were safe and maintained properly. If it can be proven that property owners were negligent, and a hazardous or unsafe condition arose causing the injury then there may be a basis to file a premises liability lawsuit and seek compensation for injuries and other damages.

Escalator Injury Liability

There are many ways escalator accidents can happen. Some people get injured when their arm, leg, shoelaces and even shoes get stuck in the space between the moving escalator and the floor. The incident is called entrapment. This is why there are often precautions provided when riding the elevator. Most people also know that you have to pay attention when stepping onto the escalator.

However other factors that can contribute to an escalator injury can include:

• Defective escalator design
• Not warning that the escalator is not functioning properly
• Failure to follow building codes
• Not following building/escalator regulations and laws
• Too many people on the escalator at once (overcapacity)
• Failure to properly maintain and/or inspect the escalator

If it can be proven that contributing factors such as those listed above played a part in your injury then the property owners, property managers and even the escalator manufacture or escalator maintenance company can be help liable.

Elevator Injury Liability

Elevators have become a way of life for many people… especially people who live in highly populated urban centers where living and working in high-rise buildings is common place.  Elevator accidents are not common but when they do happen they can lead to serious injuries.

In Pennsylvania the law says that the duty of care an owner of an elevator has to it’s passengers is to exercise the highest degree of care. If it can be proven that the property owner, elevator manufacture or elevator installation/maintenance company breached this duty and was negligent then a premises liability lawsuit can be filed to recover compensation for injuries and other damages.

Common Elevator Accidents

Some scenarios that can lead to injuries include the elevator not lining up properly with the floor when its doors open, passengers can end up getting stuck or injured while others exit or enter the elevator. Another reported case is elevator malfunctions like doors closing on unknowing passengers or sudden stops or jerks that can lead to people losing their balance and falling or tripping when exiting or entering. Other more rare and serious scenarios can include faulty wiring injuring or pully mechanisms.

What You Can Do

If you or someone you know has been involved in a serious accident while riding an escalator or elevator then it is best to consult an experienced Philadelphia premises liability lawyer. Our attorneys can determine if you have a case and pursue legal action to ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. Contact us today at 1-888-HELPWIN (888-435-7946) for a free consultation.