Elevator Accidents – Be Aware of Hidden Dangers
Elevators are a way of life. We use them as part of our ordinary activities. Yet, we rarely think of the dangers. Most elevators work safely with regular repairs and maintenance. While most elevators operate safely with regular maintenance, accidents happen, as our elevator accident lawyers unfortunately know. According to data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Consumer Product Safety Commission, incidents involving elevators and escalators kill about 30 and seriously injure about 17,000 people each year in the United States.
Elevators cause almost 90% of the deaths and 60% of serious injuries. (www.elosh.org). Injuries to people working on or near elevators – including those installing, repairing, and maintaining elevators and working in or near elevator shafts – account for 14 (almost half) of the annual deaths. (www.cdc.gov).
Occasionally, an elevator malfunction may occur by doors opening between floors, closing too quickly, or opening when the car is not there.
Many Factors Can Cause Elevator Accidents
Many factors can cause elevator accidents, including:
1. Mis-leveling: This typically happens in brake-controlled older elevators or newer hydraulic elevators with maintenance issues like valve leakage or low oil. The elevator fails to stop level with the hallway floor.
2. Defective sliding doors: Malfunctioning door sensors like electric eyes or safety edges can lead to accidents where closing doors injure passengers.
3. Over-speed: Excessive elevator speed can result in passengers being thrown against walls or floors, causing serious injuries. This can be caused by counterweight malfunction or control system issues.
4. Falls into shaftways: The most severe injuries, and sometimes fatalities, occur when individuals fall into elevator shafts. Negligence on construction sites can lead to falls for workers, while door malfunctions can cause falls for passengers boarding the elevator.
Other less common causes of elevator accidents include electrocution from improper wiring or potential amputations when elevators move with their doors open.
Keep Yourself Safe from an Elevator Accident – Learn Who is Responsible for Your Safety!
Elevators have become essential to our daily lives in apartments, offices, and shopping centers. While we trust their safety and efficiency, accidents can still happen. In the unfortunate event of an elevator accident, it’s important to consider the parties who might be held responsible for such incidents. These accidents can result in severe injuries and, in worst-case scenarios, even prove fatal.
Building Owners
– Building owners are responsible for ensuring the safety of the elevators in their buildings.
– State laws require periodic inspections and maintenance of elevators by building owners.
– Neglecting elevator maintenance can lead to accidents, making the owner liable for compensation to the victim in case of injury.
Maintenance Companies
– Some building owners hire outside companies for elevator maintenance.
– The maintenance company should perform regular checks and repairs on the elevators.
– Failure to do so can make the maintenance company liable for accidents.
Manufacturers
– The elevator’s manufacturer can be held responsible for accidents caused by manufacturing defects or malfunctioning equipment.
Human Errors
– Human errors by any party involved with the elevator can contribute to accidents.
– Examples include failing to conduct inspections or repairs and operator errors.
Let the Experienced Elevator Accident Lawyers Protect You When You’ve Been Injured
Elevator accidents can happen due to various factors, including hidden dangers that are often overlooked. To ensure elevator safety, maintenance, and proper inspection are crucial. It is essential to ensure that all safety mechanisms, such as sensors and gauges, function correctly to prevent mechanical failure accidents. Additionally, it is important to avoid overcrowding, patiently wait your turn to use the elevator, and refrain from entering if it is already overcrowded. Accidents can occur at any moment, so it is important to stay vigilant and be aware of the risks when using an elevator.
If you or a loved one has suffered a severe injury from an elevator incident, we are here to help. Contact us for a free consultation at 419-843-6663.
