Virginia Elevator Accident Lawyer
Elevators are a familiar fixture in many buildings, and most are safe and in excellent operating condition. However, elevator accidents are more common than people think and can cause serious or even fatal injuries. When property owners fail to perform routine maintenance on their elevators, it creates an unsafe environment for riders and accidents can occur.
If you were injured in an elevator accident, you may struggle with added medical and living expenses, especially if your accident left you unable to work. If your accident was the result of someone else’s negligence, you may be able to sue for financial recovery with the guidance of a dedicated attorney.
Contact a Virginia elevator accident lawyer to empower you in your journey to retribution and compensation.
Causes of Elevator Accidents
Elevators run smoothly and safely when they are regularly maintained and inspected by professionals. However, older elevators or elevators with greater wear and tear are more prone to accidents. Some of the most common causes of elevator accidents include:
- Door malfunctions
- Misleveling
- Snapped cables
- Sudden stops and drops
Problems can also occur when the doors of an elevator open while the cabin is not present. Some elevator doors, especially older ones, can also open while the elevator is in service.
When an older or poorly maintained elevator causes an accident, injured victims may be able to file a premises liability lawsuit against the owner of the property. A nearby lawyer can help assess the viability of a claim against an elevator owner based on the specifics of the accident.
Holding Property Owners and Manufacturers Liable
Elevator accident survivors are often unsure of who is responsible for their accident. In most cases, the owner of the property on which the accident occurred will be held responsible in the wake of an accident. Property owners have a legal and moral obligation to ensure their elevators are properly inspected, maintained, and repaired if needed. If they fail to do this, they can be held liable for any injuries caused by their elevator.
Elevator manufacturers also have an obligation to ensure their products are safe for consumers. They are required to put their products through rigorous safety tests to ensure smooth operation and a safe environment for riders.
Unfortunately, flaws in the design, inspection, or manufacturing process can result in an unsafe elevator making its way to the market. If an elevator manufacturer produces an unsafe product that causes injuries, the injured parties may need to file a product liability instead of a premises liability lawsuit. If the owner of the building or elevator could not foresee the accident, it may not be possible to hold them liable.
Filing a lawsuit against a major elevator manufacturer may seem daunting, but an experienced elevator accident lawyer can help uphold victims’ rights even against large corporations.
Reach Out to a Virginia Elevator Accident Attorney
If you or someone you know was injured in an elevator accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Elevator accident injuries can be life-altering and financially devastating, especially if they prevent you from working.
Even if your injuries are seemingly minor, you deserve justice for an accident that could have been prevented. No one should have to fear for their safety when stepping into an elevator, and negligent parties must be held accountable when they endanger human lives. Reach out to a Virginia elevator accident lawyer today to discuss your potential claim.
