Injured on an Escalator? Here’s What You Need to Know

Escalators are a convenient way to move between floors in malls, stadiums, airports, and other busy locations. However, when escalator malfunctions or maintenance failures occur, they can lead to serious escalator injuries. From slip and fall accidents to mechanical failures, escalator incidents can cause broken bones, head trauma, and even amputations. If you've been injured on an escalator, it's crucial you understand your legal rights so you may receive fair and just compensation for your injuries.

Common Causes of Escalator Accidents

Escalator accidents happen for various reasons, many of which are preventable. The following are some of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents:

Escalators require regular maintenance, and when they aren't properly serviced, they can suddenly stop, speed up, or change direction, leading to falls and injuries.

Mechanical Failures

Escalators require regular maintenance, and when they aren't properly serviced, they can suddenly stop, speed up, or change direction, leading to falls and injuries.

Poor Maintenance

Property owners and maintenance companies must keep escalators in safe working condition. Loose steps or worn-out handrails can all contribute to dangerous escalator incidents.

Defective Design or Manufacturing Issues

Some escalators have inherent design flaws that make them more prone to causing injuries. In some cases, the escalator company may be held liable.

Improper Footwear

Certain types of footwear are more prone to getting caught in escalator mechanisms. Crocs, in particular, has faced multiple lawsuits over the years due to severe injuries caused by shoes becoming trapped. As a result, Crocs now includes a warning label advising parents to hold their children's hands while using escalators.

Overcrowding

Escalators in busy locations, such as shopping malls or stadiums, often see high foot traffic, increasing the risk of falls.

Who Is Liable for an Escalator Injury?

Determining liability in escalator injuries depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Property owners are responsible for ensuring their escalators are in safe working condition. If an escalator malfunction occurs due to poor maintenance or lack of inspections, the property owner may be liable for injuries.

Many malls, stadiums, and airports hire third-party companies to inspect and maintain escalators. If an escalator is not properly serviced, the maintenance company may be responsible. If an escalator has a design or manufacturing defect that contributed to an injury, the manufacturer can be held liable in a product liability lawsuit.

In some cases, multiple parties may share liability, making the claims process even more complex. Attempting to handle it alone can be an uphill battle and, unfortunately, insurance companies often take advantage of vulnerable victims. They offer lowball settlements that seem enticing, but aren't remotely close to a proper compensation. Most people don't realize that these initial offers rarely cover long-term medical expenses, leaving victims without the financial support they need for ongoing care.

Can I Sue for an Escalator Injury?

If you were injured on an escalator due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Filing a personal injury claim can help recover damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and future rehabilitation costs.

If you or a loved one has been injured on an escalator, seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Make sure you report the incident to mall security, store management, or stadium personnel to ensure an official report is filed. Don't forget to gather evidence, such as photos of the escalator, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Additionally, if your shoes or clothing contributed to the injury, keep them as potential evidence.

Whether the responsibility lies with a property owner, maintenance company, or escalator manufacturer, victims have the right to seek justice. Remember, you can't rely on insurance companies to keep your best interests in mind. You need a legal advocate by your side who can help ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to.

Injured in North Hollywood or Arleta?

If you need legal help, contact Yepremyan Law Firm for a free consultation. As an established personal injury law firm in North Hollywood, we've helped thousands of clients recover millions of dollars.
Call us today and book your appointment with a personal injury attorney in North Hollywood or request to be connected to a personal injury lawyer in Arleta.

Our firm works on a contingency basis for all personal injury matters—no recovery, no fee.

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