Elevator malfunctions can cause physical, emotional injuries

Aug 4 2019      On Behalf of  David M. Duree & Associates, P.C.      Personal Injury

If most people could see just how elevators are suspended by cables, they’d probably think twice before stepping on one. However, we take for granted that they’re going to get us to our destination safely — whether it’s the top of a St. Louis high rise office building or the second floor of a department store.

Elevator malfunctions that cause serious injuries are relatively uncommon. However, they do happen. Even if an elevator doesn’t crash, if it plummets multiple stories, the people in it can suffer debilitating injuries. Elevator maintenance workers are especially at risk of being injured since they’re often working on elevators that aren’t working properly.

Even when someone doesn’t suffer physical injuries, the emotional trauma of being trapped in an elevator after a malfunction can be severe and require some therapy and/or other medical treatment. Being trapped in a confined space for a long period can cause long-lasting trauma.

One woman who was stuck “for an extended period” in a malfunctioning elevator with the body of someone who was fatally crushed in the incident sued the company that had been working on the elevator the day that it malfunctioned.

Victims of elevator malfunctions may be able to file a lawsuit to seek compensation for expenses and damages from the property owner and/or the company that is responsible for the elevator’s maintenance.

If you or a loved one was the victim of an elevator malfunction, whether the injuries are physical and/or emotional, it’s wise to find out what your options are for seeking compensation from those responsible. An experienced attorney can review your case and provide guidance.