Nothing Recovered, Nothing Owed.

Elevators and escalators seem like simple apparatuses, but they are actually quite complex, featuring numerous moving parts that provide many opportunities for high-level failure. Workers are placed at risk of serious accidents and injuries, such as crushed or amputated fingers and hands and fractures due to falling down an open airshaft. They may also catch hair or clothing in the exposed moving mechanisms. The public is also at risk when mechanics fail to use caution while making repairs or neglect to properly maintain the elevator or escalator.

The Gumprecht Law Firm can help you recover for injuries caused by a malfunctioning escalator or elevator. Our firm regularly handles complex, high-stakes claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death and has won a place in the Million Dollars Advocates Forum.

If you were hurt in an elevator or escalator accident, it is important to speak to an experienced Georgia construction accident attorney as soon as feasible. The company is likely to repair the problem machinery right away and may attempt to destroy electronic evidence or alter employee records to its own advantage. You should contact a lawyer before the company has time to alter the scene of the accident and avoid talking to the company or its legal representatives. We are available to discuss your case 24/7 so you can get the help you need right away.

Damages for On-the-Job Elevator Injuries

If you were injured on a construction job, you are entitled to workers’ compensation, which pays your medical bills and lost wages during your period of disability. Under the Georgia workers’ compensation system, you do not have to prove your employer was to blame for your injuries, just that your injuries occurred while on the job. However, you are barred from suing your employer separately if they are at fault.

You do have another option: you can sue another company if they contributed to your elevator injuries. For example, if you were retained as a pipefitter on a construction site and were injured by a malfunctioning elevator, you may have a cause of action against the company that installed the elevator. You can pursue damages against the installation company while simultaneously pursuing your workers’ compensation claim against your employer.

Injuries to the Public Caused by Malfunctioning Elevators or Escalators

Georgia code requires elevator and escalator mechanics and installers to be certified, which involves passage of a written exam and hands-on experience in the respective machinery’s installation, maintenance, inspection and repair. Despite the credentials and training in this skilled trade, mistakes are surprisingly common.

The mechanic is supposed to turn off the elevator or escalator while making repairs. Warning signs, cones or caution tape further alert the public that the equipment is out of service. Failure to take these steps can be catastrophic. An elevator that is under repair can suddenly lurch up or drop quickly, or the doors may remain open during operation or slam shut without detecting a person’s limb. An escalator that is being serviced can race forward and throw the rider off balance or catch a foot in the gap at the landing.

Neglecting to practice proper safety tactics when working on elevator or escalator repairs or failing to fix the issue altogether can be considered a form of negligence, for which accident victims may have a viable claim for recovery.

Discuss Your Elevator or Escalator Injury Claim With a Georgia Construction Accident Attorney Today

Learn more about recovering for injuries you suffered on a malfunctioning elevator or escalator. Schedule an appointment with a Georgia construction accident attorney at our firm at 678-800-1050. The Gumprecht Law Firm is available 24/7 to take your call. We offer you a free consultation and a no-risk contingency fee arrangement.