Escalators are found in buildings and department stores all across New York City and are a mundane aspect of several New Yorker’s lives. This is part of the reason why nobody ever thinks they will be seriously injured in an escalator accident. Usually, this is true, though unfortunately, sometimes escalators are poorly maintained or manufactured, which can lead to very serious accidents. Oftentimes, people are injured in these accidents, and when they are, they will usually seek financial compensation to help cover the cost of their in-home care, lost wages, medical bills, and more. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the most common contributors to escalator accidents?
The most frequent contributors to escalator accidents are as follows:
- Missing foot brushes
- Gaps and spaces
- Missing steps
- Overcrowded escalators
- Inadequate escalator lighting
- Loose or missing screws
- Improperly working emergency shut-off buttons
- Faulty handrails
- Electrical or mechanical malfunctions
- Escalator design flaws
- Clothing or limbs getting snagged by machinery
- Escalators reversing direction, resulting in a pileup
- Finger entrapments
- Between-step entrapments
- Missing comb plates
What are the most commonly sustained injuries in escalator accidents?
Some injuries sustained in escalator accidents that have recovered financial compensation in the past are as follows:
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Joint injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Torn ligaments
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussions
- Cuts and bruises
How do I know if I am eligible for financial compensation following an escalator accident?
To recover financial compensation in any personal injury claim, you must first prove you were injured due to another party’s negligence. This is why you should always hire an experienced attorney who will help you gather the documentation necessary to prove your claim.
How do I prove another party’s negligence?
You and your attorney have several options when proving your claim. First, your attorney will try to recover any security camera footage of your accident. Then you and your attorney will assemble a collection of witness statements, police reports, medical documents, and more. Do not let the insurance companies take advantage of your situation. Hire an experienced attorney who is willing to fight for your right to a smooth recovery.
What is the statute of limitations in New York?
The statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in New York State is three years, which means you have three years from the date of your accident to file your personal injury claim. If you do not, you will most likely be denied the compensation you deserve and need.
Contact our experienced New York City firm
The Law Offices of Laurence C. Tarowsky is proud to serve clients in New York City and the surrounding areas after they have been injured by someone else’s negligence. For a consultation, contact our office today.