Nothing is more commonplace in our urban environment than elevators and escalators. Every day, millions of people use them to get in and out of their homes, offices, and stores. We tend to rely on them and take for granted that they’ll function properly. When something goes wrong, however, the results can be catastrophic. Elevator doors can suddenly slam closed crushing someone’s arm or fingers. Elevator cars can mis-level, causing someone to trip and fall. Elevator doors can open when the car is not present and someone can fall down the shaft. Escalators can lurch or trap a child’s finger between segments. Because they can be so dangerous, there are numerous laws governing the installation, inspection and maintenance of elevators throughout the country, and New York has its own specialized local laws. In larger buildings, the company that maintains and services the elevator has a contract with the owner and managing agent for the building to make sure that the elevators are maintained in a safe condition. These larger buildings will usually have a representative of an elevator company either on site or on call at all times. Many elevator accidents occur due to a failure to properly maintain and service the elevators by the on–site elevator company. For buildings without an on–site elevator company, laws were enacted to make sure that the building owner utilizes properly trained professionals to inspect, maintain and service the elevators on a regular basis. The failure to do so often leads to elevator accidents. The attorneys at The Berkman Law Office, LLC have more than 60 years of experience representing plaintiffs injured in elevator accidents. Whatever the particulars of your accident, you can be sure that we will be able to guide you down the best path to resolve your claim. |