Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
To talk with a lawyer call (770) 901-2666
Isenberg & Hewitt, PC | A Business And Personal Injury Law Firm | Since 1989
To talk with a lawyer call (770) 901-2666

Distinguished Georgia Trial Attorneys

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Poor maintenance could result in escalator and elevator injuries

On Behalf of | Nov 8, 2018 | Negligent Maintenance

It’s that time of year again. The holiday shopping season is just around the corner, and many Georgia residents still like to go to stores in order to do their shopping rather than doing it online. If you are one of them, then you may make your way to the mall at some point. These establishments are often filled with crowds of people looking for that perfect gift for someone they care about or love.

As a customer, you expect that the mall and its stores will take the necessary steps to protect your safety while you are on the premises. This includes making sure that the escalators and elevators are in good working order and safe. If your trust is misplaced, you could end up with serious injuries that will not only interrupt your holiday plans, but also your life — possibly for some time.

What types of accidents happen on elevators and escalators?

If an accident occurs with an escalator or elevator, it probably includes one or more of the following:

  • The trauma of being trapped
  • Getting a shoe, clothing or appendage stuck in an escalator or elevator door
  • Falling down an elevator shaft
  • Injuries related to entering or exiting an elevator that is not even with the floor

These types of injuries happen most often due to mechanical failures and/or improper maintenance of the elevator or escalator. Property owners who have this equipment on their premises are supposed to have a maintenance control program in place to prevent accidents from happening. Some businesses believe that the elevator company retains responsibility for the implementation of such a program, but in reality, it is the business owner’s responsibility.

Business owners must keep good records and the right records regarding maintenance, inspections and other safety requirements. If the property owner cannot produce a complete and up-to-date maintenance control program, it could be a sign of negligent maintenance, which puts your safety at risk. The property owner does not have to, and probably should not, carry out maintenance and repairs on elevators and escalators but must make sure that qualified personnel do.

Who is responsible for your injures?

More than likely, the property owner will bear the legal responsibility for your injuries, but others may also bear legal responsibility based on the circumstances. In order to make sure that all of the appropriate parties are part of your personal injury claim, it may be beneficial to make use of the legal resources in your area.