New York is famous for its big, beautiful buildings. Because these buildings are so tall, they often hold several elevators and escalators so people can get from one floor to another quickly. People use elevators and escalators almost every day. Most people do not think of them as dangerous. However, accidents can occur if an elevator or escalator malfunctions. This can happen if they are not properly taken care of by those who make or maintain them. If an elevator or escalator is defective, they can cause serious injuries. If a person becomes injured because of a defective elevator or escalator, it may be due to negligence. If you were injured in an elevator or escalator accident, it is important to seek legal representation.
When elevators and escalators are not properly cared for, they can experience malfunctions. This can happen because of design defects or mechanical errors. In order to prevent this from happening, regular inspections should be conducted on these machines so that they are safe for people to use. If they are not looked after by those who are responsible for doing so, people can become seriously injured if the machine malfunctions. This may also happen with chair lifts and moving sidewalks. Those injured in these accidents can suffer from injuries that affect the rest of their life. This may include crushed limbs, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries.
Premises Liability
Property owners have an obligation to provide a safe establishment for people who come onto their property. If they fail to do so, the owner may be responsible if someone is injured. In some cases, a property owner can be liable for an injury that occurred on their property because of their neglect. Premises liability laws are in place to protect injured people when this happens. In order to have a case against a property owner, the injured individual must prove the owner knew, or should have known, about the hazardous condition and did nothing to fix it.
Product Liability
There are other cases in which a property owner is not at fault for an individual’s injury, but someone else is. Elevators and escalators having multiple moving parts that have to be made correctly so the machines can function. When mistakes are made or if a manufacturer cuts corners during the production process, these machines can be defective and cause injuries. If this happens, product liability laws protect victims who are injured. If a manufacturer is found negligent, they may be held responsible for any injuries that may happen.
Contact our Firm
If you or someone you know has been injured in an escalator or elevator accident, contact the Law Offices of Hausman & Pendzick today.
Hausman & Pendzick effectively represents victims of neglect in Westchester County and across the state of New York. If you need a knowledgeable and skilled personal injury attorney to help you recover compensation after an accident, contact Hausman & Pendzick today.