Escalator Accidents: Broken Bones – What You Need to Know
Escalator accidents can lead to severe injuries, with broken bones being among the most common and debilitating. Each year, approximately 10,000 people are sent to the hospital due to escalator-related incidents in the United States. Understanding the causes of these accidents, the types of injuries that can occur, and your legal options is crucial if you or a loved one has experienced such an event.
Common Causes of Escalator Accidents
Escalator accidents can arise from a variety of factors, often stemming from mechanical issues, maintenance failures, or user-related incidents. Identifying the cause is the first step in determining liability and seeking compensation for injuries.
- Mechanical Failures: Like any machinery, escalators require regular maintenance and inspections. Worn-out parts, malfunctioning safety mechanisms, or sudden stops can cause falls and injuries. For instance, a broken step can cause a person to trip, while a malfunctioning handrail might fail to provide necessary support. Sudden stops or unexpected changes in speed can also throw passengers off balance.
- Improper Maintenance: Neglecting routine inspections and necessary repairs increases the risk of accidents. Loose steps, broken handrails, or malfunctioning brakes can go unnoticed and lead to severe incidents.
- Design Defects: Poorly designed escalators can pose significant safety risks. Gaps between steps and side panels can trap clothing or body parts, leading to injuries. Misaligned handrails or improperly installed emergency stop buttons can also create hazardous conditions.
- User Behavior: Risky behavior such as running, not holding the handrail, or wearing inappropriate footwear can lead to falls and injuries. Children playing on escalators or adults distracted by their phones are common examples of unsafe practices. Overcrowding and carrying excessive luggage can also contribute to accidents.
- Comb Plate Issues: The comb plates, located where the steps meet the upper and lower landings, can become loose or damaged. Missing teeth or protruding screws can catch clothing or shoelaces, trapping riders.
- Wet or Slippery Surfaces: Spills or inadequate cleaning can make escalator steps slippery, increasing the risk of falls.
Types of Broken Bones in Escalator Accidents
Escalator accidents can result in various types of fractures, depending on the nature of the incident and the individual’s reaction.
- Lower Extremity Fractures: These are common due to falls. Ankle fractures, tibia and fibula fractures (lower leg), and foot fractures can occur when someone loses their balance and falls awkwardly.
- Upper Extremity Fractures: Wrist fractures (such as Colles’ fractures), forearm fractures, and humerus fractures (upper arm) can result from attempts to break a fall.
- Hip Fractures: These are particularly common among elderly individuals, as their bones are often more brittle. A fall on an escalator can easily lead to a hip fracture, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Rib Fractures: These can occur from direct impact during a fall, especially if the individual lands on a hard surface or is crushed by other passengers.
- Skull and Cervical Fractures: Though less common, head and neck injuries can occur in severe falls, especially if the head strikes a hard object.
- Spinal Fractures: In some cases, the force of a fall can cause fractures in the vertebrae, leading to serious complications.
Legal Options and Compensation
If you’ve suffered broken bones in an escalator accident due to someone else’s negligence, you have legal options to pursue compensation for your injuries and related losses.
- Premises Liability: Escalator accidents often fall under premises liability law, which holds property owners responsible for maintaining a safe environment for visitors. This includes regular inspections, timely repairs, and adequate warnings of any hazards.
- Negligence: To pursue a claim, you must demonstrate that the property owner or maintenance company was negligent in their duty of care. This could involve showing that they failed to address known hazards, neglected maintenance, or violated safety regulations.
- Product Liability: If the accident was caused by a design or manufacturing defect in the escalator, you may have a claim against the manufacturer.
- Damages: Compensation can cover medical expenses (including surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care), lost wages (both past and future), pain and suffering, and other related costs.
Proving Negligence
To build a strong personal injury claim, it’s essential to gather evidence and document the circumstances of the accident.
- Security Camera Footage: Request and preserve any security camera footage that may have captured the incident.
- Witness Statements: Collect statements from any witnesses who saw the accident.
- Incident Reports: Obtain a copy of any incident reports filed with the property owner or manager.
- Photographs: Take photos of the accident scene, including any visible hazards or defects.
- Medical Records: Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, diagnoses, and expenses.
Steps to Take After an Escalator Accident
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Get a thorough medical evaluation to diagnose and treat any injuries.
- Report the Incident: Report the accident to the property owner or manager and obtain a copy of the incident report.
- Gather Evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible at the scene, including photos, witness information, and any relevant documentation.
- Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, advise you on your legal options, and help you navigate the claims process.
Safety Tips to Prevent Escalator Accidents
While not all accidents can be prevented, following these safety tips can reduce your risk:
- Hold the Handrail: Always hold the handrail to maintain balance.
- Watch Your Step: Pay attention when entering and exiting the escalator.
- Avoid Distractions: Refrain from using your phone or engaging in other distracting activities.
- Supervise Children: Closely supervise children and ensure they hold the handrail.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Avoid loose-fitting shoes or sandals that could get caught in the machinery.
- Be Aware of Surroundings: Pay attention to other passengers and avoid overcrowding.
- Know Emergency Stop Locations: Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency stop buttons.
Conclusion
Escalator accidents resulting in broken bones can have life-altering consequences. Understanding the common causes of these accidents, the types of injuries that can occur, and your legal rights is essential for protecting yourself and seeking justice if you’ve been injured due to negligence. If you or a loved one has experienced an escalator accident, consulting with a personal injury attorney can provide valuable guidance and support in pursuing a claim for compensation.