Escalators are a common feature in many public spaces across New York, including shopping malls, office buildings, subway stations, and airports. While they provide a convenient way to navigate between floors, escalators can also pose significant risks. Escalator injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe accidents resulting in fractures, head injuries, or even amputations. Given the high volume of escalator use in a densely populated area like New York, accidents are not uncommon, and the consequences can be life-altering.

Statistics from the National Library of Medicine reports that escalator accidents result in approximately 10,000 injuries annually across the United States, with many of these occurring in major urban centers like New York City. These injuries can lead to costly medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation. If you or a loved one has been injured in an escalator accident, it’s important to understand your legal options for seeking compensation.

Legal help is extremely beneficial to filing a successful claim. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney has a team of NY personal injury attorneys who can represent you in your claim of damages. Our attorneys have decades of experience and have helped clients who were going through similar situations.

Understanding Escalator Injuries in New York

Escalator injuries can occur due to a variety of factors, from failure to fix faulty parts to neglecting routine maintenance. Common causes include:

• Mechanical Failures: Malfunctions such as sudden stops, jerky movements, or reverse operation can cause passengers to lose balance and fall.
• Poor Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to worn-out parts, loose screws, or broken steps, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Design Flaws: Some escalators may have design flaws that make them inherently unsafe, such as steep inclines, narrow steps, or inadequate handrails.
• Slippery Surfaces: Wet or slippery steps can cause passengers to slip, particularly if proper warning signs are not displayed.
• Improper Use: Accidents can also result from improper use, such as overcrowding, running on the escalator, or carrying large items that obstruct movement.

Locations Prone to Escalator Accidents

In New York, escalator accidents can happen in various settings, including:

• Subway Stations: The New York City subway system is one of the busiest in the world, and escalators within these stations are heavily used, often leading to wear and tear.
• Shopping Malls: With multiple levels and high foot traffic, shopping malls are common sites for escalator-related injuries.
• Office Buildings: Escalators in office buildings may pose risks, particularly during rush hours when they are crowded with commuters.
• Airports: With large volumes of travelers carrying luggage, airports are another common location for escalator injuries.

Legal Options for Escalator Injury Victims in New York

When an escalator injury occurs, determining liability is the first step in pursuing compensation. Several parties may be held responsible and liable for your injuries, depending on the circumstances of the accident:

• Property Owners: Owners of the premises where the escalator is located have a duty to ensure that the equipment is safe for use. This includes regular inspections, maintenance, and prompt repairs of any issues. This falls under premises liability.
• Maintenance Companies: Companies contracted to maintain and repair escalators can be held liable if negligence in their work leads to an accident.
• Manufacturers: If the injury was caused by a design flaw or manufacturing defect, the manufacturer of the escalator could be held responsible under product liability laws.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

If you’ve been injured in an escalator accident, filing a personal injury claim is one way to seek compensation. To build a strong case, it’s important to gather evidence that demonstrates the negligence of the responsible party. This may include:

• Accident Reports: Obtain a copy of any accident report filed at the scene, which may include witness statements and details about the incident.
• Medical Records: Document all injuries and treatments related to the accident. Medical records are crucial evidence of the harm you’ve suffered.
• Surveillance Footage: If the accident occurred in a public place, there might be surveillance footage that captured the incident. This footage can be instrumental in proving liability.
• Expert Testimony: In some cases, expert testimony may be necessary to explain how the accident occurred and the extent of your injuries.

Types of Compensation

Victims of escalator injuries in New York may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical costs related to the injury, such as hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
• Lost Wages: If the injury prevents you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and any future earnings you will miss due to long-term disability.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact of the injury on your quality of life.
• Property Damage: If personal property, such as clothing or electronic devices, was damaged in the accident, you might be eligible for reimbursement.

Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in an escalator accident in New York, call Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law for help. Our team of attorneys is dedicated to helping injury victims secure the compensation they deserve. Will will guide you through every step of the process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers, ensuring that your rights are protected.

For a free consultation to discuss your case, call our office today.