Home Personal Injury Escalator Accident

Fighting to Get You the Money You Need to Get Better

Escalators are very convenient, and we use them all the time. They save people a lot of time and energy and they’re a lot easier than climbing a few flights of stairs or waiting around to get inside a cramped elevator.

We rely on escalators so much, and we automatically assume that they’re always going to work properly. But a lot of the escalators in malls and other places were built decades ago. And escalators sustain a considerable amount of wear and tear every day.

When an escalator malfunctions, people can get seriously hurt or even killed. In fact, over 10,000 people require emergency treatment every year for escalator injuries. That’s why property owners and management companies must ensure that the escalators in their buildings are safe and well maintained.

If you were harmed by an escalator in Charleston, we’ll investigate the accident and find out whose negligence was responsible for your injuries. Then we’ll a file a claim with their insurance company to get you the money you need to pay your medical bills and other expenses caused by the accident.

Call (843) 882-5005 to learn more today.

People move at the speed of trust, and we aim to ensure our clients fully trust us with their case.”
- Julian Allen
Back To Top

What Causes Escalator Accidents?

Escalators can be found in department stores, office buildings, apartment buildings, sports stadiums, hotels, schools, and colleges. The overwhelming majority of escalator accidents are caused by someone’s careless behavior.

Escalator accidents have been increasing steadily since the 1990s, as the malls and other buildings where you find them continue to age. Property owners and management companies for commercial buildings have a duty to make sure their premises are regularly inspected and hazards are eliminated before someone gets hurt.

Children under 14 and seniors over 65 are most likely to be harmed in these accidents, but anyone is susceptible to injuries caused by a poorly functioning escalator. Common causes of escalator injuries include:

  • Loose or missing screws or parts
  • Sudden stops or reversals
  • Inadequate maintenance
  • Side entrapment
  • Broken escalator teeth
  • Insufficient inspections
  • Shoe or shoelace entrapment
  • Clothing entrapment
  • Improper escalator installation
  • Poorly designed escalators
  • Loose, unstable, or broken handrails
  • Tripping hazards near or on an escalator
  • Spilled liquid near the escalator entrance or exit
  • Missing steps, defective steps, or spaces between steps
Back To Top

What to Do After an Escalator Accident

If you were harmed in an escalator accident, see your doctor right away, even if your injuries don’t seem that severe. Some injuries like concussions and whiplash can get a lot worse over time. Keep records of all your medical care including emergency treatment and visits to the doctor.

Use your cell phone to take pictures of the accident scene if you feel up to it or ask a friend to do it for you. Report the incident to the building manager as soon as possible.

You may be contacted by an insurance company representing the store, but don’t make any statements or accept any offers until you’ve had a chance to speak with a Charleston personal injury lawyer.

Back To Top

How Your Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

The insurance company agents will probably offer you a lowball settlement, but your personal injury attorney will file a claim that reflects the true nature of your expenses. If the insurance company isn’t willing to make a reasonable offer, Julian Allen of Allen Law is always prepared to take them to court.

Serious injuries may require extensive medical treatment and years of professional care. The actual cost of an escalator accident will include the following types of expenses:

  • Current and future medical costs
  • Time missed from work
  • Pain and suffering
  • Reduced earning potential
  • Rehabilitation and physical therapy
  • Home care
  • Wheelchair ramps and lifts
Back To Top

Who’s Liable for an Escalator Accident?

There are several people who can be held liable for your injuries after an escalator accident. This may include:

  • The building’s owner
  • The escalator maintenance company
  • Building management companies
  • The company that installed the escalator
  • Manufacturers of faulty parts
  • Inspector who failed to notice a faulty escalator
Back To Top

Injuries Caused by an Escalator Accident

Escalators are big, heavy machines that move with considerable force. They can trap people, cut people, and throw you to the ground. Injuries caused by escalator accident may include:

Back To Top

Were You Harmed in an Accident?

You shouldn’t have to pay for your own medical expenses if your injuries were caused by someone else’s careless behavior.

Julian Allen is a skilled personal injury attorney who holds an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell®. Call Allen Law today at (843) 882-5005 to schedule a FREE consultation.

Remember: You won’t owe us anything unless we win you a settlement.

Back To Top