Elevators can be seen in residential areas, malls, offices and mostly in all places with more than 2 to 3 floors. Millions of people use elevators on a daily basis as these make our lives much easier. Even though elevators are safe and mostly function properly but they can also be terrifyingly dangerous when they malfunction, causing serious injuries and even fatalities.
In the city of New York, there are some set laws that govern the installation of the elevators, their maintenance and inspection, but then there are always a few cases where because of faulty or ill-maintained elevators numerous people get injured each year. There are quite a few scenarios which can cause elevator-related accidents. For example, a person can get caught between the doors of the elevator, can fall down the elevator shafts or even suffer serious injuries when an elevator platform collapses. In these cases, the common injuries could include back injuries, head injuries and broken bones. When elevator accidents do occur, those responsible for the manufacturing, upkeep and safety of the elevators, can be held responsible.
If you or someone known to you has been injured in an elevator accident should get in touch with a personal injury lawyer who can help you get the rightful compensation for your sufferings.
Types of Elevator Malfunctions & Defects
The malfunctions and defects of the elevators can be very dangerous for its users. These defects could be due to:-
- Faulty elevator doors which create the risk of crushing or falling.
- Mechanical defects or breakdowns causing an elevator to drop suddenly.
- Improper maintenance
- Elevator control malfunction or faulty wiring which creates a risk of electrocution
- Inspection by negligent officials
Who is Responsible for Elevator Accidents?
To determine who is actually responsible for an elevator accident is not that simple. It typically depends on the nature of the accident. There are some rare times when even the passenger is at fault. If you or someone you know has sustained injuries in an elevator accident, it is important to get in touch with a personal injury lawyer who can guide you in a proper manner in this complex world of elevator law in New York City.
Here are some parties listed below that could potentially be responsible for an elevator accident that occurs.
- Elevator manufacturers and/or designers
- The owner of the property where the elevator caused the accident
- The subcontracted elevator maintenance companies
- Elevator attendant ( if there is one present)
- The Company that installed the elevators
What is a personal Role of a Personal Injury Attorney in an Elevator Accident Case?
Attorneys /Lawyers play a very major role in cases involving elevator accidents & injuries. With the help of a lawyer, you can maximize your compensation, get immediate medical attention and also assist in managing your ongoing medical treatment and care.
Further, an elevator injury attorney can gather relevant evidence of the poor elevator safety. You can easily file a workers’ compensation claim with an attorney’s assistance. If all goes as planned and your attorney is successful in bringing a suit or claim, you can receive financial compensation for:-
- Lost Wages
- Pain & Suffering
- Medical Expenses
- Property Damage
The attorneys at Siler & Ingber are one of the best at what they do. You can get in touch with them if you or someone you know has been injured in an elevator accident. Get in touch immediately and let us evaluate your case for free.