Many buildings in Harrison, Rye, White Plains, and the surrounding Westchester County communities have elevators, and we don’t usually think twice before using them. But elevators can be more dangerous than you may realize. Unfortunately, elevator accidents can and do happen in New York. As such, if the property owner does not maintain the fixture, or the manufacturer produces a faulty product, it can result in a malfunction and a defective product. Unfortunately, this can lead to serious injuries for unsuspecting victims. Read on to learn more about elevator accidents in New York and what to do in the event of an injury.
What are Common Types of Elevator Accidents?
Common elevator accidents in New York include falls caused by improper leveling, component malfunctions, sudden drops, mechanical failures, and electrical hazards that can all result in serious injuries
There are many different ways that an elevator accident can happen in New York. If the manufacturer does not follow protocol during production or a property owner does not maintain the machine, it can become defective and malfunction.
Common Elevator Accidents
- Electrocutions due to faulty wiring
- Tripping due to uneven or unbalanced leveling with the floor
- Falling down the elevator shafts
- Getting caught between malfunctioning doors
- Being whipped around due to excessive elevator speed
- Elevator fires
- Sudden drops or jerking movements as a result of mechanical failures
What Causes Elevator Accidents in New York?
Elevator accidents are, unfortunately, often preventable. As such, they are generally the result of negligence by multiple parties. Elevator accidents often occur without warning and are typically the result of improper maintenance, defective parts, or improperly maintained conditions.
Leading Causes of Elevator Accidents
- Improper installation of elevator systems
- Lack of routine inspection and maintenance
- Mechanical breakdowns or worn parts
- Power failures and electrical malfunctions
- Sudden stops and drops
- Defective designs and manufacturing defects
Who May Be Liable for an Elevator Accident
- Property owners and managers responsible for building maintenance
- Elevator repair companies and contractors
- Manufacturers for producing defective parts
- Installers for improper installation of the fixture
What Do I Do if I Have Been Injured?
If you have been injured in an elevator accident due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation. But, in order to recover the compensation you deserve, it is important to take steps to help preserve your claim while also prioritizing your health.
- Call 911: The police can call an ambulance, file an accident report, conduct witness statements, and more.
- Document the scene: Be sure to take photos and videos at the scene of the accident. If possible, document the hazardous conditions that caused the accident to occur.
- Obtain witness contacts: If anyone else was in the elevator or at the scene of the accident, ask for their contact information. They may be able to corroborate your version of events.
- Seek medical attention: One of the most important things you can do is visit the hospital immediately after an accident occurs. This will ensure that your injuries are treated by a medical professional while simultaneously providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. Be sure to ask for a copy of any relevant medical bills/documents.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney: An attorney may be able to gather evidence you would not otherwise be able to access. For example, an experienced attorney may be able to obtain security camera footage, police reports, and more.
Are You Eligible for Compensation After an Elevator Accident?
In order to recover compensation following an elevator accident in New York, you must be able to prove that your injury is the result of another party’s negligent actions. This generally involves filing a premises liability claim or a product liability claim, depending on the circumstances surrounding your accident.
When You May Qualify for Compensation in New York
- You were injured as a result of an unsafe elevator
- A property owner failed to ensure the elevator was safe through regular inspections or maintenance
- A manufacturer produced a defective part
- A maintenance company failed to repair known issues with the elevator
- Evidence shows that negligence directly contributed to your injuries
Evidence That Can Strengthen Your Claim
- Photos or videos of the scene, including the hazard or malfunction
- Surveillance footage of the accident
- Maintenance and inspection logs
- Prior reports of unsafe conditions
- Witness statements corroborating unsafe conditions
- Medical records
Contact Our Experienced Westchester County Injury Firm
Hausman & Pendzick effectively represent victims of negligence in Westchester County and across the state of New York. We understand how challenging life an elevator accident can be without financial compensation for the serious injuries you have suffered. If you need a knowledgeable and skilled personal injury attorney to help you recover compensation after an accident in Westchester County, contact Hausman & Pendzick today.