In New York, large buildings will usually have elevators. This is for convenience and to allow those who are older, disabled or are unable to walk up many stairs to get to the upper floors. While this is a benefit, there are dangers with using an elevator and most people do not think about them. The company that installs and maintains elevators and the building owners are responsible for making sure elevators are safe. Unfortunately, accidents can happen and people can be injured and even lose their lives.
According to recent reports, a man was killed when he was crushed by a malfunctioning elevator. His family is moving forward with a lawsuit. The man, 30, was exiting the elevator in an apartment building when he got trapped between the wall and the elevator car. The building must now have a member of its staff stationed at the working elevator. There had been a call to authorities in May asking that the building’s elevators be subject to an inspection. The Department of Buildings found that there was a safety component missing and it was shut down. The building was fined. It was subsequently cleared to be used.
Some accidents happen when people are simply going about their business and doing things they do on a regular basis. That includes walking on the street, entering an elevator, going to a store or simply leaving their home. Premises liability is a part of the law that focuses on owner and operator responsibility in maintaining a safe area. Failure to repair known hazards or to address possible risks can cause an accident. People can suffer injuries that result in medical costs, the inability to work and long-term problems. It can also cause a fatality. Owners and operators have a duty to provide safe property conditions.
