The Reality of Injuries and Deaths Associated With Elevators

There are over 900,000 elevators functioning in the United States, which means that there is of course a risk for accidents. Over the years, many people have been injured in a variety of elevator accidents caused by malfunction, trip and falls, and so much more. In fact, in 2002, two young sisters were killed in New Jersey when a safety feature in an elevator failed, so the elevator did not stop ascending even though the girls had their heads out past the gate. Like many types of electrical equipment, elevators could fail. It is important to understand the various types of elevator-related accidents and why it is important to protect yourself from these accidents.

Deaths Caused by Elevator Accidents

Every year, people die in elevator accidents, bringing truth to this unfortunate reality. In fact, statistics show us that 27 people are killed in these accidents every year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Injuries themselves affect over 10,200 people every year. But what causes the majority of these accidents?

Causes of Accidents

Many elevator accidents are not caused by trips and falls, but by defects and malfunction. However, there are many ways in which an elevator can malfunction and cause a deadly, serious accident. Some of the most deadly accidents involve a free-fall, which can lead to physical injuries and instant death. In many cases, elevators have gone into freefall for several stories, jerking to a sudden stop and causing the rider to be severely crippled for life. Many other defective-related accidents include pulley system malfunction and mechanical breakdown, open shaft problems, faulty wiring, incomplete repairs or maintenance, unbalanced leveling, and entrapment due to the heat from a fire.

Every year, injuries and deaths are reported due to elevator malfunction. As an added safety measure, you can watch how to survive a free-fall elevator accident here. Since elevator accidents are not unheard of, you should understand what rights you have for compensation if you have been injured. Call us for more information on your elevator-related accident.