Elevators and escalators are modern alternatives to staircases, enabling you to move vertically to various levels without any effort. They can also cause accidents from breaking down or malfunctioning, which might require the help of a slip and fall lawyer to gain compensation for your injuries. Here are a few common causes of elevator and escalator injuries:
1. Unlevel Entrance to Elevators
Poorly maintained elevators might not align perfectly with the floor. Having an elevator that is higher or lower than the actual flooring may cause someone to lose their footing and slip when stepping in or out. Loss of footing leads to tripping or falling, which might cause injuries like sprains, strains, contusions, fractures, and bruises. Regularly conducting maintenance checks solves such malfunctions. Property owners should verify that their elevators are level with each floor of their building.
2. Slippery Surfaces
Elevators and escalators are cleaned frequently due to high traffic during operations. Failure to properly dry the surfaces after cleaning results in a slippery elevator or escalator surface. Slippery surfaces reduce friction between your shoes and the floor, which may result in slips and falls.
Slippery surfaces can also be caused by users spilling drinks or fluids. Thoroughly dry the surfaces after cleaning and regularly check for spilled drinks to reduce any accidents caused by slipping. Consult an experienced slip and fall lawyer for legal services if you want compensation for injuries on an elevator or escalator.
3. Sudden Stops and Starts
Escalators and elevators might malfunction due to the failure of certain parts. Abrupt starts and stops can cause accidents, leading to injuries, especially when the machines are moving at faster speeds. Mechanical failures can lead to jolts or sudden dangerous falls, causing injuries. Brake or power failures cause sudden starts and stops. Address these issues by conducting regular maintenance checks and repairing worn-out system parts.
4. Malfunctioning Elevator Doors
Malfunctioning doors can suddenly open or shut without being prompted. Opening elevator doors during vertical motion leads to falls that can be severe or even fatal in some cases. Malfunctioning elevator doors may also trap body parts or clothing when opening and closing. Clothing becoming trapped in the doors can damage valuable items or cause inconveniences, while body parts becoming stuck may result in severe injuries. Maintenance checks also aid in preventing such incidents, creating a safer environment for employees and visitors.
5. Overloading
All elevators have weight limits and a maximum number of average-weight adults they can support. Exceeding the specified limits will strain the lift’s hoisting cables and other mechanical components. Strained cables may lead to failure and dangerous falls, especially from high levels. Overloading can also happen in escalators when the people stepping on them exceed their limit. This will result in the escalator being stuck or moving slower than usual. Do not exceed the specified weight limit to prevent accidents caused by overloading.
6. Power Failures
Power failures occur when an unexpected cut in power from the source causes sudden stops or jolts in the machine. Such unexpected stops may result in injuries that may be extreme depending on the force of the sudden jolt. Property owners need to examine the power systems and install backup generators to prevent such occurrences.
Consult an Experienced Slip and Fall Lawyer Today
Accidents caused by elevators and escalators occur unexpectedly in workplaces and other premises. Regular maintenance checks can prevent some of the accidents discussed above. To avoid injuries, educate users on safety practices for elevators and escalators. Reach out to a reliable slip and fall lawyer in case of any accidents caused by elevators or escalators in the workplace.