Slip and Fall Accidents Involving Escalators
Many public places offer escalators as an easy way to travel up and down to different floors of a building. Numerous people use escalators without any caution or concern, but these moving stairways can be dangerous, especially if they are not properly maintained.
One of the greatest risks of a defective escalator is a slip or fall accident. Slip and fall accidents involving escalators can result in serious injuries and costly financial losses. Individuals in the Salt Lake City, UT-area who have been harmed in a slip or fall caused by a defective elevator can work with premises liability lawyer Lynn C. Harris to seek financial compensation for resulting damages.
Causes of Slip and Fall Escalator Accidents
Most slip and fall escalator accidents are the result of negligent maintenance. Escalators involve a lot of moving parts, and many pieces that can become slip or trip hazards. If these machines are not regularly inspected and maintained, they become a hazard. Escalator defects that can cause our Provo clients to slip or fall include:
- Loose screws
- Broken steps
- Loss of treading, missing step “teeth”
- Protruding comb plates
- Excess space between the steps or between the steps and the handrail
- Loose pieces that get caught on clothing or shoelaces
Who Is Most Vulnerable to These Types of Accidents?
Anyone can be injured by a defective escalator. However, elderly patrons and young children are the most vulnerable to slips or falls involving escalators. Seniors and toddlers typically have balance issues and diminished coordination that make them more prone to tripping or falling. Any additional hazards put them at particular risk for accidents that can result in serious injuries.
Liability for Escalator Accidents
If an escalator accident is the result of negligent maintenance practices, the property owner can be held liable for any injuries or damages that are incurred. Premises liability laws hold property owners accountable for maintaining an environment that is safe for visitors. To ensure a space that is free of hazards, escalators should be inspected regularly, and any issues should be addressed immediately. If a property owner is negligent in these practices, and an accident occurs, they can be subject to a premises liability lawsuit.
Accident Damages
A slip or fall on an escalator could involve falling from a significant height. As such, these types of accidents can result in serious or catastrophic injuries, including lacerations, broken bones, amputations, neck/back injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. These types of injuries can also lead to physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial losses.
When filing a premises liability lawsuit on behalf of our Salt Lake City clients, we will seek financial compensation for the full extent of their damages, such as:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of wage earning potential
- Pain and suffering
Contact Attorney Lynn C. Harris
If you have been injured in a slip or fall involving a defective escalator, attorney Lynn C. Harris can help you hold liable property owners accountable for your damages. To find out if you have grounds for a premises liability lawsuit, send us a message at your earliest convenience, or call (801) 521-3200 to schedule a consultation.
