Elevator accidents, though relatively rare, can result in significant injuries and emotional trauma. In the wake of an elevator accident, you might be struggling with severe pain, costly medical bills, and a high level of stress. The key to finding a way forward is working with a capable, committed attorney.
At Simeone & Miller, we focus on achieving the best outcome for our clients. For over 20 years, our D.C. elevator accident lawyers have provided aggressive and compassionate legal representation for injured people. We have recovered over $100 million in compensation for our clients, and we don’t collect a fee unless we win your case. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Our Washington, D.C., Elevator Accident Lawyers Can Do for You
Our Washington, D.C., premises liability attorneys have extensive experience with these cases and can handle all the legal work for you. We’ll investigate the accident, gather evidence to support your claim, file all paperwork, and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. If necessary, we’re prepared to take your case to court and use our ample trial experience to defend your rights. Our goal is to minimize your stress while providing the comprehensive legal support you deserve.
Causes and Types of Washington, D.C., Elevator Accidents
Most elevator accidents result from negligence on the part of property owners or those responsible for maintaining elevator equipment and minimizing hazards. Some common causes of elevator accidents in Washington, D.C., include:
- Mechanical Failures – Faulty parts or poor maintenance can cause elevators to malfunction. Some examples of mechanical failures include problems with cables, pulleys, or brakes.
- Door Malfunctions – Sometimes, elevator doors may not open or close properly. This can lead to people getting caught or trapped.
- Misleveling – An elevator that stops above or below the floor level can cause trips and falls as people enter or exit the elevator.
- Poor Maintenance – Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary for ongoing elevator safety. Neglecting these can result in dangerous conditions.
Elevator accident injuries also come in a variety of forms. Some typical examples of injuries a person might suffer in an elevator accident include:
- Falls – If an elevator mis-levels or the door opens when no elevator cabin is present, people can fall and get seriously injured.
- Entrapment – Getting stuck in an elevator can be scary and dangerous, especially if it takes a long time to get rescued. Being trapped in an elevator is particularly dangerous and upsetting for people with claustrophobia (a fear of enclosed spaces) or certain health conditions.
- Collision – If an elevator moves suddenly while people are getting in or out, they can get hit or crushed.
- Trips and Slips – Misleveled elevators or wet floors can cause people to trip and fall when entering or exiting an elevator.
Who’s Liable for an Elevator Accident?
Identifying who bears responsibility for an elevator accident is a key step in pursuing compensation for your injuries. Several different parties may be liable for an elevator accident, and in some cases, more than one party shares the blame. Potentially liable parties in an elevator accident claim include:
- Property Owners – The owner of the building where the elevator is located must ensure that the elevator is safe. If they fail to maintain it properly or ignore safety issues, they could be liable for any accidents that result.
- Property Management Companies – Property management companies often agree to maintain elevators in the buildings that they manage. If they do not do so properly, they can be held liable for any damages that result.
- Maintenance Companies – Property owners often hire outside companies to keep elevators in good working order. If these maintenance providers neglect their duties or perform substandard repairs, they can be responsible for resulting accidents.
- Manufacturers – Sometimes, elevator parts are defective from the start. If a malfunction or accident occurs due to a manufacturing or design flaw, the company that made the elevator or its components may be liable.
- Inspectors – Elevators must undergo regular inspections to ensure they meet safety standards. If an inspector misses a critical issue or fails to conduct a thorough examination, they could be liable for any accidents that happen.
- Contractors – Companies that install elevators must do so correctly and safely. If an elevator is improperly installed and an accident results, the contractor responsible for the installation may be liable.
Steps to Take After an Elevator Accident in Washington, D.C.
Your top priority after an elevator accident is to see a doctor and begin treatment for your injuries. Once you’ve started medical treatment, here’s what to do next to protect your legal rights:
- Report the Accident – Inform the building management or property owner about the accident. Make sure they create an official incident report.
- Document Everything – Take photographs and detailed notes about what happened, including the date, time, location, and your injuries. Photograph or video the elevator if the dangerous condition still exists, and photograph any visible surveillance cameras that may have captured the accident. Often, elevators are quickly repaired after an accident, so taking photos immediately is crucial. However, it is sometimes possible to return to the scene to take photos.
- Collect Contact Information – Get the names and contact details of any witnesses. Their observations could be helpful to your claim.
- Keep Medical Records – Save all your medical reports, bills, and treatment records. These documents are important for proving the extent of your injuries and their relationship to the elevator accident.
- Avoid Discussing the Accident – Don’t talk about the accident on social media, and avoid sharing anything but the most basic facts with insurance adjusters. Remember, insurance companies may use anything you say to minimize your claim.
- Consult an Attorney – Contact a personal injury lawyer who handles elevator accident cases. They can help protect your rights and manage the legal process.
Potential Compensation for an Elevator Accident
One vital reason to hire an elevator accident lawyer is that they can help you make the most of a personal injury claim. With an attorney’s help, your compensation after an elevator accident could include money for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Reduced future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
Deadline to File an Elevator Accident Lawsuit in Washington, D.C.
The standard deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Washington, D.C., is three years from the date you sustained your injuries. However, there are cases when you might have to act more quickly, especially if your case involves a government agency. Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible will give you the best chance of recovering fair compensation. The team at Simeone & Miller, LLP is ready to take your case and enforce your legal rights to the full extent of the law. Contact us today to get started with a free case evaluation.
Contact Our Washington, D.C., Elevator Accident Attorneys
If you’ve been injured in an elevator accident, you deserve to hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence. At Simeone & Miller, LLP, our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you need to recover from your injuries. We understand the complexities of elevator accident cases and will work diligently to protect your rights every step of the way. Don’t wait to get the legal help you deserve—contact Simeone & Miller, LLP today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and recovery.
Simeone & Miller, LLP is based in Washington, D.C., and also provides legal services across Maryland and Virginia. In Maryland, our services extend to Baltimore City, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County. In Virginia, we serve clients in Arlington County, Alexandria, Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.