When people are involved in escalator accidents, they are very often seriously injured. Nobody expects an accident will occur when they step onto an escalator for a brief ride to the next floor. This is why when they happen, they are often sudden and there is little passengers can do to protect themselves. If you have been injured in an escalator accident, here are some of the questions you may have regarding your legal options moving forward:
What are the most common contributors to escalator accidents?
Some of the most common causes of escalator accidents are as follows:
- Inadequate escalator lighting
- Loose or missing screws
- Improperly working emergency shut-off buttons
- Faulty handrails
- Missing comb plates
- Missing foot brushes
- Gaps and spaces
- Missing steps
- Overcrowded escalators
- Electrical or mechanical malfunctions
- Escalator design flaws
- Clothing or limbs getting snagged by machinery
- Escalators reversing direction, resulting in a pileup
- Finger entrapments
- Between-step entrapments
What injuries are most often caused by escalator accidents?
Most people do not stop to consider all the potential dangers an escalator can pose. However, escalator injuries are very often severe, and can include, though are not limited to:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Joint injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Cuts and bruises
- Torn ligaments
How do I recover financial compensation following a New York escalator accident?
To recover financial compensation, you must first prove that you were injured due to another party’s negligence. However, you will have to hire an experienced attorney to do so. You and your attorney may work to recover security camera footage of your accident, witness statements, police reports, medical documentation detailing the severity of your injuries, and more. Do not wait, and do not let the insurance companies take advantage of your situation. Insurance companies are not your friend, and they may not even be looking out for your best interest. This is why you will need an experienced attorney who is ready to fight for the compensation you need and deserve.
What is the statute of limitations in New York?
The statute of limitations in New York is three years. This means you have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Neglecting to do so may ruin your chances of recovering the financial compensation you need, so you must get the ball rolling as soon as possible.
Contact our experienced New York City firm
If you have been injured in a New York City car accident, Swerling Law is here to help. Our firm understands the challenges that many people face after being hurt in an accident and is prepared to help you receive an award of significant compensation to ease some of your burdens. To schedule a consultation with an experienced construction site accident attorney in New York City, contact Swerling Law today.
