Many people find themselves using elevators every single day. You may ride an elevator up to your office, apartment building, a classroom, and so on. Because we use elevators so often, we don’t always think about the potential dangers. Elevators must be properly maintained at all times, or serious injuries can occur. Read on to learn more about elevator accidents in New Jersey.
How Do Elevator Accidents Occur?
These accidents are usually a result of malfunctions, faulty parts, or a lack of maintenance. The majority of elevator accidents are due to:
- Abrupt stops
- Pully system malfunctions
- Negligent elevator design
- Drive malfunctions
- Improper installations
- Control system malfunction
- Power failures
- Failing to maintain/update equipment
- Faulty wiring
- Door operator errors
- Mechanical breakdowns
What Are the Most Common Elevator Injuries?
When these accidents occur, the most common injuries tend to include:
- Electrocutions
- People getting caught in between malfunctioning doors
- People falling down the shafts
- People tripping due to unbalanced leveling with the floor
What Do I Do After an Accident?
There are a number of important steps to take when an accident occurs. If you have been involved in an elevator accident, be sre to:
- Call 911: The police can call an ambulance, file an accident report, conduct witness statements, and more.
- Document the scene: Be sure to take photos and videos at the scene of the accident. If possible, document the hazardous conditions that caused the accident to occur.
- Obtain witness contacts: If anyone else was in the elevator, or at the scene of the accident, ask for their contact information. They may be able to corroborate your version of events.
- Seek medical attention: One of the most important things you can do is visit the hospital immediately after an accident occurs. This will ensure that your injuries are treated by a medical professional, while simultaneously providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. Be sure to ask for a copy of any relevant medical bills/documents.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney: An attorney may be able to gather evidence you would not otherwise be able to access. For example, a skilled attorney may be able to obtain security camera footage, police reports, and more.
If you have been involved in an elevator accident, contact our firm to speak with an experienced and dedicated attorney.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
If you or someone you know has sustained an injury, whether on the job, on the road, due to a medical professional’s negligence, or otherwise, our firm is here. Rubenstein, Berliner & Shinrod, LLC has helped countless victims of negligence over the years, and we are ready to do the same for you. Contact our firm today so we can get started.
