Elevator Accidents

Rachel Olszewski

Elevators are considered one of the safest forms of indoor transportation, we even tend to assume that the ones we use every day are working properly. Unfortunately malfunctions happen, often causing serious accidents that can result in terrible injuries. In the United States, approximately 30 people die and 17,000 injuries occur in elevator accidents every year. Those who are injured in elevator accidents are often mechanics and other elevator repair personnel, but elevator accidents happen to the general public, too. These types of accidents are often due to installation errors, inadequate maintenance, or even flaws in manufacturing. Some common types of elevator malfunction/errors are:

• Elevator falls or drops
• Poor design and/or maintenance
• Improper door movements or car landing

The most common elevator malfunction is an elevator car getting stuck and someone is trapped inside. So, what should you do if an elevator gets stuck?According to National Elevators Industry Inc., use the emergency phone or call button to ask for help then follow any instructions you are given. Even older elevators should be equipped with an emergency call button or phone. It may take maintenance a few minutes to locate the elevator or the problem, but do not panic –  there is plenty of air in the elevator to breathe and help will come. Whatever you do, do not try to get out on your own.There are many potential parties that can be held at fault due to negligence. If you were injured in an elevator accident, you may have a case. For a free consultation with our team at Scartelli Olszewski, contact us today. Source: NIOSHTIC-2 Publications Search ELEVATORS & ESCALATORS ARE THE SAFEST MODE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION