Escalators are a relatively harmless aspect of department stores and the like, all across the country. Unfortunately, when escalators are inadequately manufactured or maintained, accidents can occur. These accidents are usually sudden, leaving passengers relatively unprotected and providing very little time to react. This is why most people who were injured in escalator accidents seek financial compensation to help cover the cost of their medical bills, in-home care, and more. If you were injured in an escalator accident, here are some of the questions you may have regarding your legal options moving forward:
What are the most common causes of escalator accidents?
Since escalators are such complex pieces of machinery, they can cause a wide array of accidents if improperly maintained or produced. Here are some of the most common causes of escalator accidents:
- Between-step entrapments
- Missing comb plates
- Missing foot brushes
- Gaps and spaces
- Inadequate escalator lighting
- Loose or missing screws
- Improperly working emergency shut-off buttons
- Overcrowded escalators
- Electrical or mechanical malfunctions
- Escalator design flaws
- Clothing or limbs getting snagged by machinery
- Missing steps
- Faulty handrails
- Escalators reversing direction, resulting in a pileup
- Finger entrapments
What are the injuries most commonly caused by escalator accidents?
Some of the most commonly sustained injuries in escalator accidents that have recovered financial compensation in the past are as follows:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Joint injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Torn ligaments
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
How do I recover financial compensation following an escalator accident?
To recover financial compensation, you must first prove that you were injured due to another party’s accident, however, this is not always easy, so you must hire an experienced attorney who is ready to fight for your rights. Your attorney will first determine whether you have a valid premises or product liability claim on your hands. From there, you and your attorney will have to recover evidence supporting your claim. Some of this evidence may include security camera footage, as this is generally the most straightforward way to prove your personal injury claim. However, you and your attorney may also provide medical documentation regarding the extent of your injuries, witness statements, police reports, and more.
What is the statute of limitations in Maryland?
The statute of limitations in Maryland is three years, which means you have three years from the date of your accident to file your personal injury lawsuit. Do not wait, or you may be denied the compensation you deserve.
Contact our experienced Maryland firm
The legal team at Markey & Orsi has proudly represented clients who have been injured throughout the state of Maryland due to the negligence of another party for nearly 30 years. If you require strong legal representation, contact Markey & Orsi today to schedule a consultation.
