In commercial properties all across America, elevators provide an essential service, especially for those with disabilities. However, malfunctioning elevators can pose a significant risk of personal injury. Read on for what Nevada residents should know about elevators and premises liability in their state.
Malfunctioning Sliding Doors
How do the sliding doors on an elevator know when it is safe to close? These doors work in conjunction with a sensor that detects movement. This is why, for example, someone who is in a rush to catch a closing elevator is able to stick their arm through the closing doors, activating the movement sensor and causing the doors to open again.
When this sensor or other mechanical parts of an elevator’s sliding door malfunction, it can cause the doors to close on someone unexpectedly. When this occurs, the severity of personal injury can be immense, as the individual is pulled either up or down against their will. The doors on many elevators are even strong enough to crush a person’s torso.
Malfunctioning Speed Control
A combination of electronic components and physical counterweights are what controls the speed at which an elevator goes up or down while providing occupants with a smooth and steady ride. When any of these components malfunction, it can cause the cabin of the elevator to rise or fall at an uncontrollable speed. If these components do not reactivate in time, it can result in high-impact collisions that can leave riders suffering severe personal injury.
Leveling is Uneven
The uneven leveling around elevators is a common cause of personal injury for occupants. Elevators should come to a complete stop when the floor of the carriage is flush with the floor of the building. If it is uneven, it can create a tripping hazard for unsuspecting passengers. Even the smallest difference in level between the elevator and floor can create a trip risk severe enough to cause serious personal injury, especially for older or more physically vulnerable riders.
Falling Down an Elevator Shaft
While it is fairly rare, there have been cases reported where an individual hears the signal that an elevator door is opening, only to step into an empty elevator shaft. In addition, when occupants are not escorted safely from an elevator that is malfunctioning, slips and falls can lead to an unexpected plunge down an elevator shaft. Personal injuries from these types of accidents are often quite severe and can even be fatal if the fall occurs from a height many floors above ground level.
Premises Liability and Elevators
When an individual is injured due to a malfunctioning elevator, they may be eligible to recover compensation for their damages if the owner of the premises knew about the issue and failed to address it in a timely and efficient manner. Premises owners have a duty to keep the property safe for anyone who enters, and a breach of this duty is often considered negligence in the eyes of a personal injury court.
Professional Legal Counsel in Las Vegas
For years, the attorneys at H&P Law have been helping victims of elevator accidents in Las Vegas and throughout Nevada as they recover compensation for their damages. Contact H&P Law today to discuss your case.
