Atlanta Elevator & Escalator Accidents

Elevator safety and what to do if trapped

Elevator accidents can cause serious injuries including falls, crushing injuries, and traumatic experiences. If you find yourself trapped in an elevator, follow these important safety guidelines:

• Never use an elevator during a fire.
• Wait for help and remain calm.
• Do not attempt to pry elevator doors open.
• Use the emergency communications system or press the emergency call button.
• Follow instructions from building management or safety crews.
• Never attempt to exit a stalled elevator without the help of safety crews, building management, or other professionals.
• Move to the rear of the elevator while waiting for help.

Escalators and moving walkways

Escalators and moving walks have helped transport large quantities of people for the past several decades. With proper precautions, users are able to move quickly and safely while avoiding the limit and exertion of walking or taking the stairs.

An escalator is a set of continuous moving stairs powered by a constant driving system. A moving handrail completes every escalator and provides extra security to riders. If you see an escalator without a moving handrail and you were injured, our Atlanta elevator accident lawyers can help fight for your compensation.

Moving walkways

A moving walkway is also referred to as a moving sidewalk. It is a giant conveyor belt or set of moving metal plates, designed to move people quickly from one point to another. The moving walk only moves horizontally, sometimes with a slight incline, and is often found in large airport terminals.

Moving walks allow a large quantity of people to move quickly through a given area. Riders are free to move about while on a moving walk. They can continue walking to hasten their trip or take a rest and let the moving walk do the work. Passengers are also able to bring baggage, strollers, wheelchairs, and other wheeled devices onto the moving walk while maintaining the safety of all passengers.

Safety precautions for escalators and moving walkways

When riding an escalator or moving walkway, it is very important to follow appropriate safety precautions to ensure personal safety:

• Always check that hair, clothing, and accessories are securely tied back or tucked in. Loose items have the potential to become entangled and can pose a serious safety risk.
• Pay close attention to the direction of the escalator/moving walkway before you step on.
• Step carefully onto the escalator stairs/moving walkway.
• Grasp the railing at all times with a free hand. Maintain your grip on the rail being careful to avoid the wall below the handrail.
• If traveling with small children, hold their hand. Older children may hold the railing while riding.
• Bags, packages, purses, and any other personal belongings should never be placed on escalator stairs.
• Carry personal items close to your body and away from escalator/moving walk mechanisms.
• Stand firmly in the middle of the stair or moving walkway.
• Never sit on the escalator or moving sidewalk.
• Use caution when exiting the moving sidewalk or escalator.
• Continue moving after exiting an escalator or moving walk to ensure all passengers are able to exit safely.
• Never block the exit of an escalator or moving walk.
• Use extra caution if you wear bifocals.
• Open-toed shoes should be avoided when using an escalator.

Emergency procedures

During an emergency, never ride an escalator or moving walkway. Always walk to the nearest emergency exit and follow instructions of emergency personnel.

If you or a loved one has suffered from an elevator or escalator accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Atlanta elevator accident lawyers are here to help.

Who is liable for elevator or escalator accidents?

Liability may rest with the property owner, the equipment manufacturer, the maintenance company, or a combination of parties. An experienced lawyer can investigate maintenance records, inspection reports, and code compliance to determine fault.

What if the accident was caused by another passenger?

Even if another person's actions contributed to the accident, the property owner or maintenance company may still be liable if they failed to maintain the equipment properly or ignored known hazards.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Generally, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. However, evidence such as maintenance logs and inspection reports should be preserved immediately.