Many people usually think nothing of it when they step onto an elevator. However, while they are usually safe, elevator accidents are more common than one would think. When they happen, they can cause serious injuries. It is because of this that injured parties often pursue legal action to recover compensation. In doing so, be sure to retain the services of an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney for assistance.
What are Common Types of Elevator Accidents?
There are many moving parts to an elevator. These must function properly so that the machine can do what it is supposed to. If a part is defective and malfunctions, it can cause an accident. The following are common ways that an elevator accident can take place:
- Electrocutions due to faulty wiring
- Tripping due to uneven or unbalanced leveling with the floor
- Falling down the elevator shafts
- Getting caught in between malfunctioning doors
- Being whipped around due to excessive elevator speed
- Elevator fires
Can I Recover Compensation?
Elevator accidents can be devastating and cause injuries that have a lifelong impact. Common injuries you may be sustained in these accidents can include:
- Cuts and bruises
- Crush injuries
- Back injuries
- Head trauma
- Neck injuries
- Severed limbs
- Broken bones
- Wrongful death
After an elevator accident takes place, legal action can be pursued by filing a personal injury claim. In doing so, the injured party is required to work with their attorney to prove that negligence took place. If a property owner was negligent, it may result in a premises liability case. If the elevator manufacturer was negligent, it could result in a product liability case. Evidence that can be helpful to back up a claim in court can include security camera footage, witness statements, police reports, pictures of the safety hazard, medical documentation of the injuries you sustained, and more.
Contact our Firm
If you have been injured as a result of a personal injury accident and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.
