When someone is seriously hurt on an escalator or elevator, it can be challenging to determine who is at fault for the injury. The owner of the building, the parts manufacturers, service and repair companies, and even inspection companies could be liable for the victim’s damages. If you or your family member was injured in an escalator or elevator accident in Puerto Rico, we can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.
Common Escalator and Elevator Problems
Elevators and escalators and the parts that run them must be properly installed, maintained, and repaired. The companies that install and service these systems must be licensed to work on them and be trained to follow the established practices and standards for the industry.
Yet, some of the most common problems we have seen with these types of accidents include:
- Carriage/floor misalignment
- End-plate entrapment
- Improper installation, repair, maintenance, or inspections
- Malfunctioning elevator doors
- Mechanical breakdown
- Pulley system and wiring malfunctions
- Side entrapment
- Sudden starts and stops
When escalators or elevators malfunction, the sudden starts and stops can cause serious injuries. Children are especially at risk during a malfunction because they may not be able to reach safety railings or hold them properly. Children are also at risk on escalators for side and end-plate entrapment, which can result in sprains, broken bones, cuts, and soft tissue injuries.
Liability for Your Injuries
Under Puerto Rico premises liability law, property owners have a legal obligation to ensure the elevators and escalators installed on their properties are in proper working order and are safe for their patrons to use. They must ensure these systems are regularly maintained and inspected, and that patrons are either prevented from using them if they are broken or warned about any dangers or hazards that make them less safe.
But keep in mind that service and repair contractors may be legally responsible for injuries sustained because of poor or inadequate maintenance and inspection companies may be responsible if they fail to conduct a thorough inspection according to the accepted guidelines and protocols, or if they approve an elevator or escalator that should have been failed. Parts and equipment manufacturers also have a responsibility, and if their products are defective, they too may be liable for injuries.
Protecting Your Rights After an Injury
If you suffer an elevator or escalator injury, you need to ensure your rights are protected. We defend your rights and ensure you receive the maximum compensation available by law for your injuries. We do this by thoroughly investigating your claim and building a strong case. When our clients are injured due to the fault of someone else, we work with accident investigators and medical professionals to determine the true value of your losses.
We analyze security footage, interview witnesses, and evaluate inspection, repair, safety, and security records and logs, as well as the personnel who perform the repairs and inspections. We help you determine how the accident happened and who is liable for your damages.
For more than 20 years we have helped injured victims obtain maximum settlements and awards for their injuries, and we will fight to do the same for you. Contact us today if you were injured on an escalator or elevator and learn if you are entitled to seek the justice and compensation you need and deserve.
