Albuquerque Elevator Accident Lawyers

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Elevators are a routine part of daily life, whether in office buildings, apartment complexes, or public spaces. We trust them to function properly. But elevators pose serious risks if not maintained or operated correctly. When an elevator accident occurs, it can lead to severe injuries, and victims deserve justice for the harm they’ve endured.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an elevator accident in Albuquerque, The Law Giant Injury Lawyers are here to help. With years of premises liability experience and over $1 billion recovered, we’re committed to securing the maximum compensation you deserve. Call (505) 900-0000 or fill out our online form for a free consultation with the Law Giant

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New Mexico Elevator Accidents

Elevator accidents can happen in various settings, including commercial buildings, residential complexes, hotels, hospitals, or public venues like malls and transportation hubs. Whether in an office building, a high-rise apartment, or a public facility, the risk of an elevator malfunction exists.

While most elevators function safely with proper upkeep, the consequences can be sudden and severe when they fail. With help from a knowledgeable elevator accident attorney, they can take the burden of a personal injury claim off your shoulders so you can focus on healing.

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We Win Big!

With thousands of satisfied clients, our New Mexico injury attorneys have what it takes.

Types of Elevator Accidents

Elevators require constant upkeep and maintenance, but abrupt stops, malfunctions, and more can occur when that falls to the wayside. The most common examples of elevator accidents include:

Abrupt Stops

When an elevator suddenly halts between floors, passengers may be thrown off balance, leading to injuries such as broken bones, sprains, or head trauma.

Free Falls

Although rare, an elevator may experience a malfunction, causing it to drop several floors at high speeds. This can result in catastrophic injuries for those inside.

Door Malfunctions

Passengers can be caught in malfunctioning doors that fail to sense motion or pressure, leading to crushing injuries or amputations.

Misalignment

Elevators that stop unevenly between floors can cause trip-and-fall accidents when passengers enter or exit, leading to significant harm, particularly for the elderly or disabled.

Entrapment

If an elevator becomes stuck between floors, passengers may be trapped for hours without emergency services. This can lead to psychological trauma or medical emergencies, especially for those with health conditions.

What Causes NM Elevator Accidents?

Elevator accidents can occur due to multiple factors, many of which stem from negligence. Some common causes include:

Poor Maintenance

Elevators need regular inspections and timely repairs to ensure safe operation. When routine maintenance is neglected, sudden stops, misalignments, or even free falls can endanger passengers. Property owners and maintenance teams must address potential hazards before accidents occur.

Defective Equipment

Defective elevator parts, such as cables, door sensors, or control systems, can cause malfunctions. These defects often stem from manufacturing flaws or improper installation, creating dangerous user conditions. Faulty equipment can result in severe accidents, including door entrapments or elevator drops. 

Human Error

Building owners, property managers, or maintenance personnel may fail to follow proper safety protocols, leading to accidents. Mistakes in operation, such as not checking for malfunctions or overcrowding, increase the risk of sudden stops or trapped passengers. Human negligence can have serious consequences for those using the elevator.

Overcrowding

Elevators are designed to carry a specific number of passengers or weight limit. When this capacity is exceeded, the elevator may malfunction, leading to sudden stops, cable strain, or other failures. Overcrowding can result in significant injuries for passengers inside.

Common Elevator Accident Injuries

When an elevator accident occurs, the passengers inside can experience a wide range of injuries, everything from broken bones to spinal injuries. Depending on the accident’s severity, the healing process can take weeks to years. Common injuries include:

Fractures & Broken Bones

Elevator accidents, such as sudden drops or abrupt stops, can cause passengers to be thrown against the walls or floor. This impact can lead to fractures or broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, or ribs.

Head & Spinal Injuries

Collisions within the elevator or against the shaft during malfunctions can result in traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage. These injuries can range from concussions to more severe cases of paralysis. With these types of injuries, victims often face long-term medical care and rehabilitation.

Crush Injuries

Malfunctioning elevator doors that close too quickly or fail to detect passengers can lead to crush injuries. Passengers caught in the doors may suffer severe damage to limbs or vital organs. These injuries often require surgery or amputation and can result in permanent disability.

Soft Tissue Injuries

When an elevator stops abruptly or experiences a mechanical failure, passengers are at risk of soft tissue injuries like whiplash, strains, and sprains. Though less severe than fractures, these injuries can cause significant pain and require physical therapy. Even minor malfunctions can result in long-term discomfort.

It’s crucial to consult with a skilled Albuquerque personal injury attorney to learn how to receive compensation and move forward with your life after an elevator accident.

Who Is Liable for an Elevator Accident?

Liability in an elevator accident depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident. In many cases, multiple parties could share responsibility, including:

The Property Owner or Manager

Property owners or managers are responsible for ensuring that elevators are regularly inspected and properly maintained. When they fail to address known hazards or neglect routine maintenance, they put passengers at risk. Their inaction can make them liable for accidents caused by faulty or unsafe elevator conditions.

Maintenance Companies

Elevator maintenance companies are tasked with conducting necessary repairs and following strict safety protocols. Neglecting their duties, such as skipping inspections or failing to fix reported issues, can lead to dangerous malfunctions. If their negligence results in an accident, they may be held accountable.

Manufacturers or Installers

Manufacturers and installers are responsible for producing and safely installing elevator components. If they produce or install defective parts incorrectly, it can cause elevator malfunctions and accidents. In such cases, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries.

New Mexico Elevator Laws

New Mexico has strict regulations in place to ensure the safety of elevators. These laws require regular inspections, maintenance, and compliance with safety standards. Building owners and property managers must adhere to these regulations, or they may face legal consequences.

Elevator accidents that result from violations of these safety laws can strengthen a victim’s personal injury claim, as it highlights the negligence that led to the incident. Our attorneys at The Law Giant will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties and build a strong case for your compensation.

Compensation for NM Elevator Accident Claims

Victims of elevator accidents may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of immediate treatment, ongoing medical care, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover compensation for lost income or diminished earning capacity.
  • Pain and Suffering: Elevator accidents often result in significant emotional trauma and physical pain, both of which are compensable under New Mexico law.
  • Disability and Disfigurement: If your injuries result in permanent disabilities or scarring, you may be entitled to additional compensation.

The value of your claim will largely depend on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and any long-term effects. More severe injuries, such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries, often lead to higher compensation due to extensive medical treatment, ongoing care, and the emotional toll on your life.

An Albuquerque Elevator Accident Lawyer Can Help

After a devastating elevator accident, dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain can feel overwhelming. A skilled lawyer at The Law Giant can make a crucial difference by:

  • Investigating the incident: We will gather evidence, inspect maintenance records, and consult with experts to determine what caused your elevator accident and who is responsible.
  • Proving negligence: Establishing that a building owner, maintenance company, or another party failed to uphold safety standards is essential for securing compensation.
  • Negotiating with insurers: Insurance companies may attempt to reduce your payout, but your attorney will fight for the full amount you deserve.
  • Calculating damages: We will evaluate both your economic and non-economic losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical needs.
  • Representing you in court: If a fair settlement isn’t reached, we will take your case to trial and advocate for your rights.

Let our experienced Albuquerque elevator accident lawyers handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options for justice and compensation.

Hurt in an Elevator? The Law Giant Wins Big

We recognize that elevator accidents cause more than just physical trauma—they can change lives. At The Law Giant Injury Lawyers, our team is dedicated to investigating every detail, from identifying negligence to determining liability and securing max compensation for the harm you endured.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, so you won’t pay unless we win your case. Contact The Law Giant at (505) 900-0000 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.