Escalators are a common sight in malls, airports, train stations, and office buildings. They provide convenience but can also pose serious safety risks. Escalator accidents can lead to severe injuries, costly medical bills, and long-term suffering. Victims of escalator accidents may be entitled to compensation if their injuries were caused by negligence. This guide explores escalator accident statistics, types of injuries, common causes, legal options, settlement calculations, and how a personal injury lawyer can help.
Escalator Accident Statistics
Escalator accidents are more common than most people realize. According to data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):
- There are approximately 10,000 escalator-related injuries each year in the United States.
- About 75% of escalator accidents involve falls, either from slipping, tripping, or being knocked over.
- Around 20% of escalator accidents involve entrapment, where a body part or clothing gets caught in the escalator mechanism.
- Children and the elderly are the most at risk, with over 50% of escalator-related injuries affecting individuals under 10 or over 65 years old.
- Escalator fatalities, while rare, do occur. Between 2013 and 2020, at least 30 escalator-related deaths were reported in the U.S.
Where Do Escalator Accidents Occur Most?
Escalator accidents can happen anywhere escalators are present, but certain locations see a higher frequency of incidents:
1. Shopping Malls
- High foot traffic increases the risk of falls and collisions.
- Unsupervised children can be more prone to accidents.
2. Airports
- Travelers carrying heavy luggage may have difficulty balancing on escalators.
- Escalator malfunctions due to excessive usage.
3. Public Transit Stations (Subways & Train Stations)
- Commuters rushing to catch a train may trip or slip.
- Mechanical failures due to constant operation and wear and tear.
4. Hotels and Casinos
- Tourists unfamiliar with escalator safety can be at higher risk.
- Alcohol consumption can increase the likelihood of accidents.
5. Office Buildings
- Escalators in corporate buildings are sometimes poorly maintained.
- Employees using escalators in a hurry may be prone to falls.
Most Common Types of Escalator Injuries
Escalator accidents can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:
1. Broken Bones and Fractures
Falls can result in fractures, especially in the wrists, arms, hips, and legs.
2. Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A fall from an escalator can lead to concussions or severe brain injuries.
3. Lacerations and Deep Cuts
Sharp edges or gaps in escalator steps can cause deep cuts and even amputations.
4. Crush Injuries
Entrapment accidents can lead to crushed fingers, toes, or even limbs.
5. Spinal Cord Injuries
Serious falls may lead to paralysis or long-term back injuries.
Types of Negligence in Escalator Accidents
Escalator accidents often result from negligence. The following types of negligence commonly contribute to these accidents:
1. Poor Maintenance and Defective Equipment
- Worn-out or broken escalator steps.
- Loose handrails or missing safety features.
2. Failure to Warn of Hazards
- Lack of warning signs for wet or slippery escalator steps.
- Absence of proper safety instructions.
3. Improper Installation
- Escalators installed at incorrect angles or without proper safety measures.
- Defective parts used during installation.
4. Negligent Property Owners
- Failure to conduct regular inspections.
- Ignoring previous safety complaints or reports.
Types of Lawsuits for Escalator Accidents
If you have been injured in an escalator accident, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. The most common legal claims include:
1. Premises Liability Lawsuits
- Filed against property owners or managers who fail to maintain escalator safety.
- Claim must prove negligence led to unsafe conditions.
2. Product Liability Claims
- If an escalator had a design flaw or manufacturing defect, a claim can be filed against the manufacturer.
- Defective components can make manufacturers liable.
3. Wrongful Death Claims
- Families of victims who die due to escalator negligence can file a wrongful death lawsuit.
- Damages include funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional distress.
How Escalator Accident Lawsuits Work
The legal process for an escalator accident lawsuit typically involves:
- Investigation: Gathering evidence such as video footage, maintenance records, and witness statements.
- Filing a Claim: A formal legal complaint is filed against the responsible party.
- Negotiations: Lawyers attempt to reach a settlement with insurance companies.
- Trial (if necessary): If no settlement is reached, the case may go to court.
- Settlement or Verdict: The case concludes with either an agreed-upon settlement or a judge’s verdict.
How Escalator Injury Settlements Are Calculated
Settlement amounts vary depending on the severity of injuries and other factors:
- Medical Expenses: Includes past and future treatment costs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time off work due to injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional trauma.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation if negligence was extreme.
Recent Escalator Injury Settlements
Escalator injury settlements vary based on the severity of injuries, the level of negligence involved, and other factors. Below are some notable recent escalator injury settlements:
- $3 Million Settlement (New York, 2022): A woman suffered a severe spinal cord injury after falling due to a malfunctioning escalator at a shopping mall. The property owner failed to repair known defects.
- $2.5 Million Settlement (New Jersey, 2021): A child’s foot was severely injured after getting trapped in an airport escalator. The lawsuit proved that maintenance failures contributed to the accident.
- $1.8 Million Settlement (Ohio, 2020): An elderly man fell on an improperly maintained escalator at a hotel, leading to multiple fractures and a traumatic brain injury.
- $1.2 Million Settlement (Chicago, 2019): A commuter suffered a broken leg and permanent nerve damage after slipping on an escalator at a train station. Surveillance footage showed the escalator had been malfunctioning for months without repair.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
A skilled personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate and gather crucial evidence.
- Identify liable parties and build a strong case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
- Represent you in court if necessary.
Contact an Escalator Injury Lawyer
Escalator accidents can cause devastating injuries, but you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. If you or a loved one has been injured due to an escalator accident, the experienced attorneys at Sobo & Sobo are here to help. With over 50 years of experience as a nationwide personal injury firm, we have a proven track record of fighting for victims’ rights and securing the compensation they deserve. Call 855-468-7626 to speak with an attorney today, or schedule a free consultation online.
