Escalator Accidents

An escalator accident is an unfortunate accident that occurs when a member of the public is injured by a defective escalator.  There are many different uses for escalators in both public buildings and privately owned buildings.  When an innocent pedestrian is injured or killed in an escalator accident, there is a possibility that the accident was the result of defective design or maintenance of the escalator.

Owners of buildings with escalators are responsible for taking all reasonable precautions to ensure that no one is injured on their property.  If you were hurt because of a defective escalator, you should consider filing a personal injury claim to compensate for your pain and suffering.

Common Causes of Escalator Accidents

Escalators are sets of moving stairways that mechanically move pedestrians through a system of gears and interlocking steps.  Escalators are located in many buildings that are frequented by the public.  They are used in malls, airports, retail shops, subway stations, hotels, and many other types of buildings.

The owners of the escalators, whether they are private companies or government agencies, are responsible for ensuring that the escalators are functioning properly and are not a hazard to the public.  There is usually a state or municipal code that requires periodic inspection of escalators to ensure their safety.

Escalator accidents happen in many different ways.  One of the most deadly types of accidents is an explosion of an escalator.  Beneath the walking surface, escalators have complicated machinery that involves electricity.  When this machinery explodes, anyone near the escalator can be seriously injured.

Escalators can also pose a fall hazard if they are stopped or started abruptly.  This can cause the rider to lose balance and either fall down the escalator or fall forward onto the sharp metal steps.

In some rare cases, escalator steps can drop out, causing the rider to fall into the escalator machinery.  Any of these types of escalator accidents can be the result of negligent design or inspection of the escalator.

Injuries from Defective Escalators

Escalator accidents can cause serious and fatal injuries to the victims.  One of the most common types of injuries from a defective escalator is a crushing injury.  When a body part such as a hand, arm, foot, or leg becomes caught in the escalator stair mechanism, the limb can be crushed by the heavy metal machinery.

This can result in amputation and disfigurement of the affected area, and can even cause death if internal organs are injured.  Escalator accident victims can also suffer from contusions, broken bones, burn injuries, and lacerations, all of which can have a permanent affect on the victim’s health and quality of life.

Our Attorneys Handle Cases Involving Escalator Accidents

If you were hurt in an accident that happened on an escalator, you should speak with a personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights.  If your injury was caused by the negligence of another person, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation.  One of the experienced personal injury attorneys at Duffy & Duffy can help you file your escalator accident lawsuit and will represent you in your claim.