escalators and elevators injuries

While escalators and elevators are relatively safe, accidents do happen. And because of the bureaucracy of elevator and escalator inspection, many of our nations' people transporters are quickly deteriorating. A qualified New York elevator and escalator accident attorney can determine if your claim is substantial enough to move forward.

Escalator accidents are a common cause of accidental injuries in the United States. The CPSC estimates that there were 7,300 hospital emergency room-treated injuries from escalators in 1994. Seventy-five percent of these injuries were due to falls, another 20 percent occurred when hands, feet or shoes were trapped in escalators. Here we have provided some FAQs from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission that may help you stay safe while using an escalator. If you have been in an escalator accident that was someone else's fault, a lawsuit can help you pay your bills and compensate for your pain and suffering.

What are some general safety tips to follow when using an escalator?

• Always face forward and hold the handrail.
• Avoid the edges of steps where entrapment can occur.
• Learn where the emergency shutoff buttons are in case you need to stop the escalator.

What can I do to prevent clothing getting stuck in an escalator?

Be aware that loose shoe laces, drawstrings, scarves, and mittens can get trapped in escalators. In the past year, CPSC reached an agreement with a number of children's clothing manufacturers to remove drawstrings from the necks and hoods of children's garments. If your child's clothing still has drawstrings, remove them.

What can I do to prevent clothing getting stuck in an escalator?

Always hold children's hands on escalators and do not permit children to sit or play on the steps. Do not bring children onto escalators in strollers, walkers, or carts.

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