Escalators get us upstairs effortlessly. They are a convenient device for those who are traveling with their hands full or have limited mobility. Unfortunately, escalators are also a source of serious injury when they malfunction or are improperly controlled. When you’re injured because of a faulty escalator, a Laughlin premises liability lawyer can help.
At H&P Law, we are committed to getting you the justice you need after an escalator accident. Our Laughlin escalator accident lawyers will use our collective 60 years of legal experience to bring your case to a favorable resolution.
Escalator Accident Injuries
Injuries in escalator accidents can set you back physically and financially. The physical damage brings pain and disability, and the costs of medical care and missed work hours during recovery create significant financial distress. Common injuries from escalator accidents include:
- Broken bones from falls caused by abrupt changes in speed
- Amputations or crush injuries if limbs or digits get caught in the grooves between steps or along the escalator’s sides
- Back, head, neck, and soft tissue damage from falls
- Burns from electrical malfunctions
Though all are serious, some of these injuries can heal with medical intervention and time. Still, those interventions are expensive, and time away from work leaves you without income.
The more devastating injuries can cause paralysis or other permanent disability, preventing you from ever working again. You can also lose your independence and ability to engage in relationships and activities as you once did.
What to Do After an Escalator Accident
Your safety is paramount after an escalator accident. Since escalator injuries are often serious, you may need to remain still until help arrives. If you can move without harming yourself further, or if someone is with you, start gathering evidence.
Take pictures of the scene. Get contact information from witnesses. If you are not sure of the severity of your injuries, you should still report the incident to management.
Then, see a doctor. Do not dismiss any aches or pains or assume you have not been hurt. Sometimes, pain and other symptoms are delayed, and you could put yourself and your case at risk if you do not seek immediate medical care.
Compensation for Escalator Accident Losses
A Laughlin personal injury lawyer will account for every loss you sustain in an accident and demand compensation to cover your financial losses, and acknowledge the damage done to your emotional health and quality of life. Compensation for financial losses typically includes:
- Medical bills
- Missed wages
- The value of the property damaged in the incident
- Additional expenses related to the accident
You can trust your attorney to accurately value your non-financial losses by gathering your testimony, speaking to friends and caregivers, and learning about your prognosis and potential limitations from medical experts.
On-the-Job Escalator Injuries
You could sustain an escalator injury while working. In these situations, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits and be eligible to file a third-party claim against the party whose negligence caused the accident. Our team can help you on both fronts.
We will guide you through the workers’ comp process, from giving notice of a work injury to completing your application for benefits. At the same time, we can take your third-party case through the necessary steps. We are well-positioned for dealing with insurance companies and meeting any challenges your respective cases present.
Partner With a Laughlin, NV, Escalator Accident Attorney to Fight for Maximum Compensation
Partnering with H&P Law is the move to make after an escalator accident. Our team will provide you with immediate support and guidance and manage all the legalities involved in pursuing compensation. For the best case outcome, connect with us quickly.
With prompt access to your case, our escalator accident lawyers in Laughlin have a better chance of collecting evidence that supports your claim. As time passes, physical evidence gets lost. Conducting the investigation sooner strengthens your case. In Nevada, NRS §11.190 allows you two years to bring a claim against a liable party for an escalator accident.
A swift partnership also allows us to determine fault and file against the negligent party within Nevada’s deadline. By filing the claim, you accomplish two important tasks. First, you protect your right to seek justice if a trial is needed. Second, you signal to the at-fault party that you are prepared to take them to court if they do not make a fair settlement offer during negotiations.
Determining the Negligent Party in an Escalator Accident
A successful case outcome is only possible if you can prove that the at-fault party committed an act of negligence that caused your injuries and damages. Determining who to hold responsible is a critical initial step in the process.
Your Laughlin escalator accident attorneys will examine the circumstances of your accident and activate our relationships with accident reconstruction specialists to find answers. Possible negligent parties include:
- Property owners: If they fail to maintain the escalators and use crowd control measures to avoid exceeding load limits
- Escalator manufacturers: If they produce a defective or poorly designed product
- Escalator inspectors and mechanics: If they fail to notice or properly repair problems
- Unruly escalator riders: If their behavior causes the machine to malfunction or injures other riders
Laws Governing Escalator Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has laws governing escalator safety on the books, and those involved in the operation of these machines must demonstrate compliance. Any OSHA violations can make the non-compliant party culpable for the accident victims’ damages.
Under OSHA regulations, “No elevator or escalator with a defect which affects safety shall be used.” Escalators must undergo comprehensive annual inspections and regular monthly inspections for “satisfactory operation.” Records of the inspection must be posted close to the escalator.
Your Fight for Justice Is Our Fight, Too
H&PLaw is on your team, and we are both courtroom-proven and client-praised. We care about our clients and are committed to securing your compensation and restoring your sense of justice.
Reach out for a free case review. Our dedicated escalator accident attorneys in Laughlin, NV, are ready to get to work.
