People all over the country use escalators on a daily basis, especially if they frequently shop, or work in a department store of some kind. Many people do not give escalators a second thought, as they are usually considered nothing more than something you get on and get off, seconds later. However, when an escalator accident occurs, the injuries passengers sustain are very often severe. This is why most people injured in escalator accidents seek financial compensation. If you have been injured in an escalator accident, here are some of the questions you may have regarding your legal options going forward:

What are the most common factors of escalator accidents?

Escalators are complex pieces of machinery and are composed of several working parts. When even one small thing goes wrong, it can sometimes cause a lot of damage. Here are the most common causes of escalator accidents:

• Finger entrapments 
• Between-step entrapments
• Missing comb plates
• Missing foot brush
• Escalator design flaws
• Clothing or limbs getting snagged by machinery
• Escalators reversing direction, resulting in a pileup
• Gaps and spaces
• Missing steps
• Inadequate escalator lighting
• Loose or missing screws
• Improperly working emergency shut-off buttons
• Faulty handrails
• Overcrowded escalators
• Electrical or mechanical malfunctions

What injuries have recovered financial compensation in the past?

• Joint injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Concussions
• Cuts and bruises
• Soft tissue injuries
• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Torn ligaments

How do I know if I qualify for financial compensation?

To qualify for financial compensation, you must first prove that the injuries you’ve sustained were due to another party’s negligent behavior. Your attorney will determine whether you have a premises liability or a product liability claim.

How can I prove I was injured due to another party’s negligence?

To prove your personal injury claim, you may obtain security camera footage of your accident as it happened. Additionally, you may use police reports, witness statements, pictures of the safety hazard, and more. You should always seek medical attention immediately after an accident, as a medical professional will treat your injuries and provide you with medical documents detailing their severity, which you may also use to help prove your claim. 

What is the statute of limitations in New York State?

The statute of limitations in New York State is three years, which means that you have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim. Failing to do so may result in you being denied the compensation you need.

Contact our experienced New York firm

Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call 212-421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a New York City personal injury lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.