Elevators and escalators are essential parts of daily life in New York, from high-rise offices to subway stations. But when these machines malfunction or are improperly maintained, serious injuries can occur. Understanding who is legally responsible for your injuries is key to recovering fair compensation.

Common Causes of Elevator and Escalator Accidents

Accidents often happen due to:

• Mechanical failures: Faulty doors, sudden drops, or jerky movements.
• Poor maintenance: Failure to inspect and repair worn cables or electrical components.
• Installation errors: Mistakes made by construction or installation companies.
• Negligent operation: In some cases, property owners or employees may misuse the equipment.

Each of these situations can point to a different responsible party under New York law.

Who May Be Liable for Your Injury?

Liability for elevator or escalator accidents can fall on several parties, including:

• Property owners and managers: They are legally obligated to maintain safe premises and ensure the equipment functions properly.
• Maintenance companies: If the company hired to inspect or repair the elevator failed to do its job correctly, it may be held accountable.
• Manufacturers: When a defective part or design flaw causes an accident, the manufacturer may face product liability claims.
• Contractors and installers: Errors during installation can also make contractors liable for resulting injuries.

Determining liability often requires a thorough investigation into maintenance records, inspection reports, and design specifications.

Seeking Compensation for Your Injuries

Victims of elevator and escalator accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills and rehabilitation
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term disability or disfigurement

New York’s premises liability laws can be complex, and strict deadlines apply to personal injury claims.

At Law Offices of Jonathan Van Dina, PLLC, we can provide legal assistance to the Hicksville public. Our team can review the circumstances of your accident, identify the responsible parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve.