Elevator and Escalator Accidents on the Rise
Most people do not give a second thought to these convenient forms of travel. Walk in, push the button and go. Or, climb on and stand there. However, if these conveniences are not properly designed and built; or, are not properly maintained, they can be very dangerous. The manufacturers are responsible for making them safe and building owners and property management companies are responsible for keeping them safe. Nonetheless, sometimes the parties responsible for the safety of these devices do not fulfill this duty. Unfortunately, the result is over 10,000 injuries and 27 deaths per year from elevator accidents and 17,000 injuries and 30 deaths per year from escalator accidents. One case involved a 4 year old child who was killed on an escalator when he fell 18 feet onto a display case after being pulled through the gap between the Plexiglas divider and the escalator. A subsequent investigation revealed that the gap between the escalator and the Plexiglas was greater than that specified by the relevant building code.
Below are the most common causes of elevator and escalator accidents:
Common Causes of Escalator Accidents
- Improper installation, including missing parts and side panels
- Sudden stops
- Loose or missing parts, such as the metal teeth known as “comb plates”
- Inadequate maintenance
- Side entrapment involving soft shoes such as Crocs
Common Causes of Elevator Accidents
- Elevator falls or drops
- Improper door movements or defective safety strips on doors
- Car landing incorrectly, either above or below designated floor
- Improper design
- Improper maintenance
Sadly, many escalator accidents involve children. They are fascinated by the moving parts, but unable to understand the potential dangers. Parents should hold their children’s hands as opposed to allowing them to hold the moving railing. This helps prevent the children from becoming pinned in the mechanism. When stranded in an elevator between floors, it’s very tempting to try to climb up or down to the next floor, especially if others are there ready to help you. However, this is an extremely poor and unsafe idea. Tragic results can occur if the elevator begins to move before you have made it to safety. It is far better to wait until qualified personnel are onsite to rescue you safely.
Contact us today to speak with a qualified Tustin premises liability attorney.