Am I Eligible for Compensation After an Escalator Injury?
Escalators, ubiquitous in public spaces such as shopping malls, airports, and transit stations, are designed to offer convenience. While these mechanical marvels do assist people in moving efficiently between different levels of Florida buildings, they can also pose risks, leading to injuries that range from minor cuts to severe, life-altering conditions.
In Clearwater, escalators are commonly found in places like Westfield Countryside Mall, Clearwater Mall, and various hotels and office buildings. The organizations that manage these buildings have a responsibility to keep their properties free of known dangers. If you are injured due to a property manager’s failure to maintain a safe environment, you could be eligible for compensation. Talk to a Clearwater lawyer to learn more.
Common Causes of Escalator Injuries
Injuries sustained on moving stairways happen for different reasons and range in their severity. Some are due to trips and falls, when there are sudden stops or missteps that cause passengers to trip or fall, leading to bruises, fractures, or head injuries.
In other situations, clothing, shoes, or even body parts get caught in the moving parts of the escalator, causing severe cuts or amputations. Plus, sudden jolts can lead to whiplash or other back and neck injuries.
Some of the most common causes of escalator harm:
- Mechanical malfunctions. Faulty machinery, such as broken steps or improper handrail movement, can lead to falls or entrapment.
- Improper maintenance. Neglected maintenance can result in worn-out parts, slippery surfaces, or loose screws, increasing the risk of injury.
- Design flaws. Poor design can lead to gaps between steps and sidewalls or awkward angles that can catch clothing or shoes.
- User error. Running, playing, or not paying attention while on an escalator can lead to trips, falls, or getting caught.
It’s important to recognize that not all escalator injuries result in compensation. If the injury occurred due to user negligence, such as not holding the handrail or improper behavior, the responsibility might fall on the injured party. It is essential to use escalators as intended to minimize the risk of injury.
Assessing Your Compensation Eligibility
If an escalator injury occurs due to mechanical failure, poor maintenance, or design flaws, the injured party may be able to access financial relief. To secure a settlement, you must prove that the injury was due to negligence. This could be the property owner, the maintenance company, or the manufacturer.
Consulting with a Clearwater lawyer can help navigate the complexities of your case and increase the chances of a successful outcome. Skilled attorneys can collect photos of the accident site, gather witness statements, and unearth maintenance records to support your claim.
Were you hurt while riding a Florida escalator? If you’ve been injured on an escalator in Clearwater or a surrounding community, it’s important to have a conversation with the legal professionals at King Law Group. Talented attorneys who have helped others in similar situations are available to assess the specifics of your case, determine liability, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Schedule your confidential consultation today.
