Escalators are meant to make life easier, but when they malfunction or are poorly maintained, the consequences can be serious. In Connecticut, escalator accidents have resulted in everything from minor cuts to long-term disability and even wrongful death. Whether it happens in a shopping mall, airport, or office building, an escalator injury can create both physical pain and financial hardship.
This article walks through the most important steps for anyone injured in an escalator accident in Connecticut—how compensation works, who may be liable, and how a personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights.
Common Causes of Escalator Accidents in Connecticut
Understanding how escalator accidents happen is a key part of determining fault and pursuing compensation. In Connecticut, property owners have a responsibility to ensure their escalators are safe, and failing to do so can lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common causes include:
- Mechanical failures: Worn-out parts, faulty brakes, and power issues can cause an escalator to stop suddenly or speed up without warning.
- Lack of maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are legally required. When those are skipped or performed poorly, escalators become dangerous.
- Clothing or shoe entrapment: Loose clothing or shoelaces can become caught in the steps or sides of an escalator.
- Sudden stops or jerks: Abrupt movement can cause riders to lose their balance and fall.
- Wet or slippery surfaces: Escalator steps that are slick with water, oil, or debris are particularly hazardous, especially to older adults and young children.
Many escalator injuries can be prevented with proper maintenance and oversight.
Types of Escalator Injuries That May Qualify for Compensation
In Connecticut, victims of escalator injuries may suffer a wide range of physical damage—some with long-term consequences. Common injuries include:
- Sprains, strains, and torn ligaments
- Fractures, particularly to wrists, ankles, and hips
- Lacerations and crush injuries from entrapment
- Head and brain injuries from falls
- Spinal injuries or herniated discs
These injuries often lead to medical bills, missed work, and emotional stress. A personal injury attorney can help you evaluate how these factors contribute to the value of your claim and determine what kinds of compensation you may be entitled to.
Liability in a Connecticut Escalator Injury Case
A key question in any escalator accident is: who is responsible? Liability often falls on one or more of the following parties:
- Property owners or managers: If an escalator is not properly maintained or if hazards were left unaddressed, the building’s management may be liable under Connecticut’s premises liability laws.
- Maintenance companies: Many property owners outsource escalator upkeep. If a third-party contractor failed to maintain the equipment properly, they may share responsibility.
- Manufacturers: In rare cases, the escalator may have a design or manufacturing flaw. If a defect caused the incident, the manufacturer could be held accountable under product liability laws.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can investigate the facts, gather maintenance records, and bring in safety experts if needed to determine who is legally responsible for your injury.
What to Do After an Escalator Accident in Connecticut
The steps you take after an injury can have a major impact on your ability to seek compensation:
- Seek medical attention immediately – Even if injuries seem minor, having a medical record from the day of the accident is important.
- Report the incident – Notify the property owner, store manager, or building security and request a written report.
- Document everything – Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and anything unusual about the escalator. If anyone witnessed the accident, get their contact information.
- Preserve evidence – Don’t throw away shoes or clothing worn during the incident. These may be helpful later in showing what happened.
- Contact a Connecticut personal injury attorney – The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of preserving evidence and building a strong case.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To After an Escalator Accident
A successful personal injury claim in Connecticut may provide compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. These may include:
- Medical expenses – Including emergency care, surgery, physical therapy, and future treatments.
- Lost income – If the injury kept you from working or affected your earning potential.
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for the physical pain and emotional impact of the injury.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement – If the injury causes long-term physical or cosmetic changes.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – For injuries that impact your ability to participate in daily activities or hobbies.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer in Connecticut Can Help
While some accident victims are tempted to handle their claim alone, escalator injury cases are rarely simple. A personal injury attorney can provide valuable support by:
- Investigating liability and identifying all responsible parties
- Handling communication with insurers and legal teams
- Calculating the value of your claim with the help of medical experts and economists
- Negotiating for a fair settlement—or preparing for trial if needed
Most personal injury attorneys in Connecticut work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and legal fees only apply if you win compensation.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
If you or a loved one has suffered an escalator injury in Connecticut, don’t wait to explore your legal options. Timing matters. Surveillance footage may be erased, and witnesses may be hard to locate as time passes.
Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law has years of experience representing accident victims across Connecticut. Our team knows how to build strong personal injury claims, hold negligent parties accountable, and fight for full and fair compensation.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about your injury, your options, and how we can help you move forward.