Escalator and Elevator in a shopping mall.Escalator and Elevator Injuries

More Texans are using escalators and elevators every day thanks to a growing number of high-rise residential towers and office buildings being constructed across the state.

While most people don’t give the safety of these modes of transportation a second thought, our Dallas injury lawyer details, elevators and escalators injure an alarming number of people every year, leaving the victims physically, emotionally, and financially devastated.

How Escalators and Elevators Cause Injuries

The state of Texas requires that passenger elevators and escalators be inspected by a qualified agent at least every six months, and freight elevators every year. However, most injuries caused by escalators and elevators happen when the machines are not properly inspected or maintained.

Common scenarios include:

  • Getting a hand or foot caught between the escalator stairs (or side entrapment)
  • Escalators making sudden stops
  • Loose or missing parts that result in machine malfunction
  • Elevators trapping people in doors
  • Worn elevator brakes or parts due to lack of maintenance

Common Escalator and Elevator Injuries

Approximately 17,000 people across the United States are injured in elevator and escalator accidents each year. The average elevator weighs up to 2,500 pounds, so when injuries happen, they can be serious and lead to:

If you or a loved one has been injured in an elevator or escalator accident, you have a right to file a claim or lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries. The time limit for filing a lawsuit in Texas is two years from the date of the accident.

Damages that can be awarded from filing a claim include:

  • Medical expenses for existing treatments
  • Lost wages due to missing work while recovering from your injuries or taking care of a child who was hurt
  • Future medical expenses to manage and treat your injuries   
  • Pain and suffering
  • Diminished quality of life
  • Procedures or treatments for scarring

Sadly, approximately 30 people are killed by elevators and escalators each year. People who operate and maintain elevators are most at risk of fatal injuries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration reports that since December 2020, two Texas workers were killed in elevator accidents: one was crushed between an elevator car door and gate, while the other died in a fall down an elevator shaft.

If the unspeakable happens to your family because of an elevator or escalator accident, our attorneys will fight to help your family get justice and compensation to cover:

  • Funeral expenses
  • Medical expenses incurred prior to a family member passing away
  • Other unexpected costly fees

With attorneys in Dallas, Houston, and Midland, The Button Law Firm’s personal injury experts will fight for you to get justice anywhere in Texas. Give us a call at 214-699-4409 or submit a contact form for a free consultation on an elevator or escalator injury claim.

You Were Hurt by an Escalator or Elevator in Texas. Now What?

If you have been injured by an elevator or escalator, it is important to follow these steps:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention at an emergency room or urgent care clinic, or visit your primary care physician
  2. File a police report to document the incident
  3. Gather any evidence you may have about the facility, including pictures of the elevator’s inspection certificate that should be posted. It is also important to take pictures of the areas around an elevator or escalator, including any signage or lack thereof surrounding the machines. 
  4. Hire a lawyer, like at The Button Law Firm, who is experienced in handling cases involving escalator and elevator injuries

How The Button Law Firm Can Help After an Injury Caused by an Escalator  

Escalator and elevator injuries fall under a complex part of Texas law called premises liability. Thus, it is advantageous to consult with our compassionate and knowledgeable lawyers at The Button Law Firm. We know what it entails to get justice from a negligent property owner, and we will fight on your behalf while you or your child focus on recovering from an escalator or elevator injury. Our attorneys at The Button Law Firm are recognized on the prestigious Texas Super Lawyers list, and we can help guide you after a traumatizing incident, especially one involving your child. We work on contingency, meaning we don’t charge you or collect any upfront fees to get started on your case.

Russell Button
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Dallas, Houston, and Midland Texas trial and personal injury lawyer dedicated to securing justice for clients.