Elevator and Escalator Accidents
Monterey Elevator and Escalator Accident Attorney
People generally do not appreciate the dangers associated with elevators and escalators until they or a loved one has suffered an injury. Elevators and escalators are heavy equipment, but their dangers are overlooked because they are a part of everyday life. These machines were developed and designed to move large amounts of weight quickly and efficiently. As a result, these machines produce incredible force. When these machines malfunction the resulting injuries can be severe and even fatal.
There are a small group of companies that design, manufacture, install and service elevators and escalators. Less than ten companies handle 95% of the manufacturing of all elevators and escalators worldwide. For these companies, elevators and escalators are their entire business. Not only do these companies specialize in the elevator and escalator industry, they also specialize in defending lawsuits against individuals who are injured by their machines. These companies have law firms and attorneys whose entire legal practice consists of defending lawsuits involving such injuries.
Elevator and escalator accidents occur when these machines malfunction. Like all machines, they are susceptible to wear and tear and have a limited life. In other words, at some point, these machines will fail and catastrophic injuries may result. Common elevator and escalator malfunctions include: abrupt stop, rapid ascent, rapid descent (fall), door malfunction (resulting in crush injury or elevator shaft fall), failure to level, braking system failure, among others.
Elevator and escalator accidents can result in complex litigation. Elevator and escalator accidents can give rise to claims involving product defect, premises liability and negligence. Often times, several parties may be involved. This can include the manufacturer of the machine, the installer of the machine, the company tasked with servicing the machine and the owner of the property where the machine was located. Since there may be many layers to a lawsuit involving an elevator or escalator injury, it is important that you have an attorney who understands these cases.
The attorneys at the Piccuta Law Group have experience handling elevator and escalator injuries. The Piccuta Law Group has established relationships with experts in the elevator and escalator industry. These experts have knowledge as to mechanical safety, electrical systems, operation of these machines, maintenance of these machines and best practices. If you or a loved one was involved in an elevator or escalator injury, contact one of our attorneys today to discuss your case.
