Elevator and Escalator Safety

Elevators and escalators were created to help move people in between the floors of a tall building in a safe and easy manner, without the use of stairs. This can be extremely helpful for disabled individuals, or simply people who are in a hurry and looking for a more convenient form of transportation. Though these machines are helpful, they can also be extremely dangerous if there are inherent malfunctions or defects within the equipment itself. If an accident occurs because of one of these defects, the manufacturer or owner could be held responsible for any injuries that result.

Injuries that can result from an elevator or escalator incident can be extremely devastating. Not only could you face severe injuries to your limbs, internal organs, brain or spine, you could also be killed if the device is really in trouble. In addition, you could face the high cost of medical bills, suffer from lost wages due to missed work and endure physical and emotional pain and suffering.

One way to make sure that elevators and escalators are working properly is by making sure they routinely checked and screened by licensed professionals. In addition, they should be licensed by the state as a safe machine and that license should be renewed whenever it is near expiration.

There are certain instances where human error is involved in an accident, but oftentimes they are not. The following events could lead to injury from malfunction:

· Accidental ascents or descents

· Elevator doors opening to empty shafts

· Trapping an individual between the shaft walls

· Falls

· Accident acceleration or deceleration of escalators

· Trapped body parts

According to the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, there are several hundred reports of death in work-related elevator/escalator accidents every year. Do not be another statistic. By seeking legal representation following your accident, you can help others to not be a victim of the same fate. In addition, you could receive financial compensation to help you deal with your individual hardships and recover from damages. The best way to make sure negligent parties pay for their reckless behavior is in a court of law. Laws exist to protect you and your loved ones from this kind of incident, now and in the future.