Elevators are an indispensable part of Rochester’s infrastructure. But like all machinery, elevators can fail. And when they do, the consequences can be grave. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to an elevator malfunction, Lacy Katzen LLP is here to help. Contact a skilled and compassionate Rochester elevator accident lawyer today.
Elevator Accident Lawyer | Here for Injury Victims in Rochester
The aftermath of an elevator accident can be complicated to navigate, both in terms of medical recovery and the legalities involved, but a seasoned Rochester personal injury lawyer from our firm is prepared to guide you through each step of the claims process.
Common Causes of Elevator Accidents
Elevator accidents can occur due to various reasons. Some of the most common causes and types of elevator malfunctions are as follows:
- Mechanical Failures: Wear and tear over time can lead to elevator parts malfunctioning. This includes issues like brake system failures or cable snap, which can result in a sudden and dangerous plummet.
- Misalignment with Floor: Sometimes, the elevator may not align perfectly with the floor level. This small gap can be a tripping hazard, causing slips and falls.
- Door Malfunctions: If the doors close too quickly or unexpectedly, they can hit passengers, leading to injuries.
- Improper Maintenance: Elevators require regular inspections and maintenance. Negligence in this area can make the elevators prone to unexpected breakdowns.
- Electrical Failures: Malfunctions in the electrical systems can lead to problems like the elevator getting stuck between floors, or even fires.
- Overloading: Every elevator has a weight capacity. Exceeding this can strain the system, leading to malfunctions.
- Poor Installation: Improper or rushed installations can result in an array of long-term issues.
- Elevator Shaft Accidents: Maintenance workers or others might fall into open shafts if proper safety measures are not in place.
- Lack of Safety Features: Modern elevators come equipped with a variety of safety features. Older models might lack these, increasing the risk of accidents.
Assigning Liability After an Elevator Accident
In the aftermath of an elevator accident, determining liability is a nuanced task. It’s not just about identifying a faulty part; one must ascertain the root of the malfunction. Was it due to a manufacturing defect? Or perhaps poor maintenance? This is where the skills of a seasoned personal injury lawyer become indispensable. Some of the ways in which an elevator accident lawyer can help are as follows:
- Investigation and Evidence Collection: The immediate aftermath of an accident is crucial. Lawyers can help in gathering evidence, which can include everything from CCTV footage, witness statements, and maintenance records.
- Navigating Complex Laws: The realm of elevator accidents is governed by a myriad of state and local laws and regulations. A well-versed elevator accident lawyer can navigate this legal maze effectively.
- Engaging Experts: Sometimes, technical expertise is required to ascertain the cause of an accident. A personal injury lawyer can bring in elevator experts to provide testimonies, making the case stronger.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Often, insurance providers might aim to settle claims for a fraction of what’s due. A lawyer can effectively negotiate to ensure victims receive the full and fair compensation to which they are entitled.
Contact an Elevator Accident Lawyer Today
Elevator accidents, while not everyday occurrences, are serious matters when they do happen. Victims can face not only physical and emotional trauma but also a daunting legal journey. If you’ve been injured in an elevator accident due to no fault of your own, contact a lawyer from Lacy Katzen LLP for a free consultation.
