I Slipped and Fell on an Escalator: Can I File a Personal Injury Case?
While escalators may seem safer than taking the stairs, they pose a number of hazards. Slips and falls on an escalator can hurt people. These kinds of incidents aren’t always caused by honest mistakes. Sometimes negligence is to blame.
If you’ve suffered serious injuries from slip, trip, and fall accidents, the lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau can help. Our law offices in Daytona Beach and Palm Coast, FL have represented numerous clients who have suffered catastrophic harm due to negligence. Our law firm would like to consider legal options in these kinds of accidents.
Common Causes of Escalator Accidents
Some of the most common causes of escalator accidents include:
- Broken Steps - A broken or missing step could cause someone to lose their footing while ascending or descending an escalator.
- Loose Handrails - Handrails are crucial for helping people keep balance. A loose or damaged handrail could contribute to a slip or fall.
- Wet or Slippery Surfaces - A wet floor or items left on a floor could be the cause of a serious fall. This is especially the case for escalators.
- Flaws in the Comb Plate - Some people trip or suffer harm on an escalator due to flawed comb plates. Shoelaces or fabrics from clothes could get caught by the teeth or the comb, leading to injuries.
- Missing Parts - A missing screw or bolt could spell disaster for an escalator. Any missing components of an escalator should be addressed ASAP and the escalator should be marked out of order.
- Improper Installation - Even if an escalator is technically sound and intact, it may not have been installed properly at the space. This could lead to major hazards for people who visit the property.
- Lack of Regular Maintenance - Escalators should be regularly serviced to ensure proper working order. A lack of regular maintenance puts people at serious risk of injury.
Who Is Legally Liable for an Escalator Accident?
Different parties could be held liable for causing or contributing to an accident on an escalator. Here are three common parties that may be sued in an accident.
1. The Property Owner
Whether it’s a shopping center, a hotel, or an office building, the owner of a property has a duty to keep visitors and guests safe. If employees or staff are inattentive in providing safe conditions on an escalator, a premises liability lawsuit could be filed against the owner of the property.
2. The Contractor or Subcontractor
We noted how poor escalator installation can contribute to accidents. In these cases, the failure of an escalator and any accients that stem from it could be grounds for a lawsuit against the negligent constructor or contractor responsible for installation.
3. The Makers of the Escalator
If the escalator is inherently flawed in terms of design or how it was manufactured, the makers of the escalator itself could be subject to a product liability lawsuit. This holds companies accountable for putting dangerous products on the market.
Do I Need a Premises Liability Lawyer?
Technically no, but having a premises liability attorney on your side will make the legal process much easier and more convenient.
Our attorneys can help with your injury lawsuit if it occurred in or around Daytona Beach and Palm Coast. We will review the evidence of your case and let you know if the claim is worth pursuing. We will then make sure the lawsuit is filed within the statute of limitations.
As the case unfolds, our lawyers will work on negotiating a fair settlement. If one cannot be reached, we won’t hesitate to take you case to court to seek legal damages.
In short, a lawyer will give you peace of mind while you seek compensation for your slip and fall injuries. It’s worth contacting skilled attorneys about your case.
Contact Our Law Firm About Your Slip and Fall Accident
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident on an escalator, contact our personal injury lawyers today. Our law offices can help you.