People do not usually think of being involved in an accident when they step on an escalator. However, these machines can be dangerous in the event that they are not created properly and looked after while they are in use. This can cause dangerous accidents that lead to significant injuries such as broken bones, crushed limbs, serious brain injuries, and more. If you have been injured in an escalator accident, it is important to contact an experienced New York personal injury attorney for assistance with your case.
Common Types of Accidents
When escalators are not made or maintained properly, they can malfunction and cause accidents to occur. Some common accident can include:
- Between-step entrapments
- Gaps and spaces
- Inadequate lighting
- Loose or missing screws
- Improperly working emergency buttons
- Faulty handrails
- Missing steps
- Electrical or mechanical malfunctions
- Design flaws
- Finger entrapments
What Causes Escalator Accidents?
Escalators are complicated machines that involve numerous moving parts. In the event that a manufacturer is negligent during production, mistakes can be made that cause malfunctions later on. In addition to this, they require routine inspections and maintenance once they are in use. If those responsible for these duties fail to fulfill their obligations, serious accidents can occur as a result.
How Do I Recover Compensation?
Injured parties often want to pursue legal action in order to receive compensation for their suffering. This can be accomplished through a personal injury lawsuit in which the injured person must prove negligence. During this time, they are required to prove the property owner knew about the hazardous conditions and failed to fix it. If the accident was due to the negligence of a manufacturer, a product liability lawsuit can be filed.
If successful in proving negligence, the injured party may recover compensation as coverage for any damages as a result of the accident. This may include the following:
- Concussions
- Cuts and bruises
- Torn ligaments
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Joint injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
What is the Statute of Limitations?
When pursuing compensation, it is important to know there is a statute of limitations in place. This is a deadline that the injured party must meet when filing a personal injury claim against the negligent party. In the state of New York, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the injury.
Contact our 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.
