If you are injured as a result of an elevator accident, you can file a claim to help receive compensation. Elevator accidents may result from someone else’s negligence and are therefore classified under liability claims. However, filing for such claims can prove to be a challenge. Hiring a lawyer to guide you through the legal process can be the best way to handle the situation. For you to file the claim, you must be able to prove that the injuries were the result of someone else’s negligence. Here are some of the instances in which you could file a claim for an injury incurred on an elevator.
Getting Stuck in the Elevator
If you think that the only time you can sue for elevator injuries is after suffering physical injuries, you may be wrong. You can actually file a claim for being stuck in the elevator. Although it may be hard to prove that you suffered from the incident, the fact that the malfunction may be due to the building owner’s negligence may be sufficient grounds to sue. You may not sustain any physical injuries, but the emotional distress would be a factor in any resulting damages.
The Elevator Is in Freefall
If the elevator experiences malfunction and goes into a free fall, you may very likely sustain physical injuries. This falls under premises liability, and you can file a claim against the building for a lack of maintenance. The liability may also go to the maintenance company for failure to detect and fix the issue during maintenance.
Elevator Door Slams Shut on You
You may be getting in or out of the elevator, but the door accidentally locks, leaving you with bruises. This may be due to a faulty design or malfunction of the elevator. In this case, you can file a product liability suit against the elevator’s manufacturer, distributor or retailer.
At Leav & Steinberg LLP, our firm was founded 20 years ago to provide clients in and around New York, NY with personalized care and experienced representation. If you have endured any of these unfortunate incidents, you should seek the help of our attorneys. We will work with you and gather the evidence for your case. Contact us today to request your free consultation.
