An elevator accident is an unexpected event in San Antonio that can easily be catastrophic for those involved. If you suffered a significant injury in an elevator disaster, get help from a skilled personal injury attorney in San Antonio. A lawyer can explain your legal rights and help you hold someone accountable for your losses.
Common Injuries From Elevator Accidents
When an elevator malfunctions or does not operate as it is meant to, users can suffer serious or fatal injuries. Elevator accidents can range from tripping on a misaligned floor to falling down an empty elevator shaft.
The injuries caused by elevator accidents range significantly in nature and type. Common examples include:
- Multiple or compound bone fractures
- Muscle sprains, strains or tears
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal injuries
- Amputated limbs
Elevator accidents can be extremely harmful. Victims may have to spend thousands of dollars on medical treatments for their injuries, in addition to suffering lost wages, physical pain and emotional injuries.
Elevator accidents are frightening and traumatic incidents that can be caused by a variety of safety issues. Many involve human error, such as negligent elevator ownership or maintenance. Negligence refers to the failure to act with proper care, resulting in harm to others.
Issues that may be connected to elevator accidents in San Antonio include:
- Poor elevator maintenance
- Skipped safety inspections
- Mechanical failures or malfunctions
- Electrical issues
- Defective or worn-out parts
- Faulty elevator installation
- Improper alignment (misleveling)
- Elevator overloading or exceeding the weight capacity
- Sudden stops or drops
- Elevator door malfunctions
- A lack of fall protection or barriers
- Elevator car detachment
If an investigation of your elevator accident determines that someone else is responsible – such as an elevator company or the owner of the property – you have the right to pursue damages (financial compensation) from this party.
Seeking Justice for an Elevator Accident in San Antonio
The type of injury claim you have depends on the cause of your accident. You may have the right to file a claim against the owner of the building or property in San Antonio if negligent premises care or maintenance contributed. If the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition, this can make the owner responsible.
If a piece of elevator equipment was defective and malfunctioned, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer. Elevator manufacturers are required to ensure the safety of their products. Other liable parties can include an elevator maintenance company, safety inspector, property manager, employer, the government or a third party.
Consult With an Elevator Accident Attorney for Help
A skilled personal injury lawyer can be invaluable during your elevator accident case in San Antonio, Texas. You can count on a lawyer to guide you through every process required to ensure a fair financial recovery, from identifying the liable party and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance claims adjusters.
While an insurance company may try to take advantage of you and underpay you for a severe injury, your lawyer will work for you and only you. An attorney will take proactive measures to optimize your case outcome. Meanwhile, you can concentrate your energy on healing from serious injuries.
To discuss a specific elevator accident case with an attorney in San Antonio, contact Hill Law Firm Accident and Injury Attorneys today.