Elevator and escalator injuries can happen suddenly and lead to serious consequences. Understanding the causes of these accidents and knowing what steps to take can help protect you and your loved ones. Some of the most common types of injuries include the following: If you or a loved one has been injured in an elevator or escalator accident, consulting with a Las Vegas premises liability lawyer can help you navigate your options for seeking compensation.
Meet the Attorneys
Michael S. Valiente
Founder & Attorney
Mike Valiente understands the importance of exceptional client service, a lesson he learned after a personal car accident where he received poor legal representation. Determined to provide a better experience for his clients, Mike co-founded Valiente Mott with a focus on helping injury victims, not insurance companies. After earning top honors in law school, Mike defended major insurance companies before shifting his focus to personal injury law. His experience and dedication have earned him a reputation as one of Las Vegas’ leading attorneys, with most of his clients coming through referrals from other professionals and satisfied clients. Mike is fluent in Spanish and licensed in Nevada and California.
To learn more about Michael Valiente and his values, watch the video below:
Timothy A. Mott
Founder & Attorney
Tim Mott, a proud Las Vegas native from a long line of Nevada residents, is deeply committed to serving his community. As a personal injury lawyer, Tim has tried several cases to verdict and has never lost a trial, earning him recognition as one of Nevada’s top legal professionals. Known for his dedication to representing injury victims over powerful corporations, Tim takes great pride in his work and receives most of his cases through referrals from fellow attorneys and satisfied clients. A magna cum laude graduate of the William S. Boyd School of Law, Tim is licensed to practice in Nevada, Utah, and Washington.
To learn more about Tim Mott and his values, watch the video below:
What Our Clients Are Saying About Us
“If one needs peace of mind when faced with a legal case, Valiente Mott Injury Attorneys is the place to go”
Kudos to Mr. Timothy Mott for having such a great team, his professional charisma and dignity are outstanding.
We highly recommend them, thank you for everything
Alexandra V. | Google Review
“I would strongly recommend giving them a call if you’ve been in an accident no matter how big or small!!”
Cindy | Google Review
“I couldn’t recommend them enough”
Benjamin B. | Google Review
Elevator Injuries
- Sudden Stops or Drops: Elevators may occasionally stop suddenly or drop unexpectedly, leading to falls or other injuries for passengers inside.
- Malfunctioning Doors: When elevator doors close too quickly or fail to detect passengers properly, they can cause harm by trapping passengers as they enter or exit.
- Misleveling: This occurs when the elevator stops either above or below the floor level, potentially causing trips and falls.
- Electrical or Mechanical Failures: Any failure in the elevator’s systems can impact its functionality and safety for users.
Escalator Injuries
- Caught Clothing or Limbs: It’s crucial for passengers to be mindful of loose clothing or shoelaces, as these items can get caught in an escalator’s moving parts.
- Sudden Stops or Jerking Motions: Escalators that stop abruptly or jerk can cause balance issues, resulting in falls or collisions.
- Loose or Broken Steps: Steps that are not secure or properly maintained can lead to slips or trips while using the escalator.
- Lack of Maintenance or Improper Repair: Ensuring that escalators receive regular checks and maintenance can prevent failures that might cause accidents.
Being aware of these common causes can help people take proactive measures to enhance safety during the use of elevators and escalators.
Liability in Elevator and Escalator Injuries
When individuals sustain injuries due to elevator or escalator incidents, understanding the potential legal recourse available to them is essential. Injured parties may be entitled to seek compensation for their injuries from the liable parties, which often includes one of the following:
Property Owners
Property owners have a responsibility to maintain their premises, ensuring that all elevators and escalators are regularly inspected and repaired. If they neglect this duty, they may be held liable for any incidents that occur due to their failure to maintain these systems.
Maintenance Companies
Maintenance companies play a crucial role in the upkeep of elevators and escalators. They are tasked with performing regular check-ups and repairs. If a maintenance company fails to carry out these tasks correctly, they could be held liable for accidents arising from this oversight.
Manufacturers
Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that elevators and escalators are free from design or manufacturing defects. If an accident occurs due to a defect, the manufacturer may be held accountable under product liability laws. Ensuring that all components are safe and reliable is vital to prevent these defects from endangering users.
Elevator and Escalator Injury FAQs
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Elevator or Escalator Injury in Las Vegas?
Liability can extend to property owners, maintenance companies, equipment manufacturers, and sometimes the installation company. Identifying the liable party is crucial and can be complex, which is why working with an experienced Las Vegas elevator and escalator injury lawyer can help.
What Should I Do After an Elevator or Escalator Accident?
First, seek medical attention for any injuries. Then, report the incident to the property owner or manager. If possible, take photos or videos of the scene and note details like the elevator or escalator number. Obtaining witness information is also helpful. Lastly, contact a lawyer to understand your rights and options.
Can I File a Lawsuit if I Was Injured on an Escalator in a Las Vegas Casino?
Yes, you may be able to file a claim or lawsuit if you were injured on an escalator in a Las Vegas casino, assuming negligence or a defect caused the accident. Casinos and other businesses have a duty to maintain safe conditions on their property, including keeping elevators and escalators in proper working order.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for an Elevator or Escalator Accident in Nevada?
In Nevada, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. Consulting with a Las Vegas elevator and escalator injury attorney as soon as possible can help protect your right to pursue compensation.
What Compensation Can I Recover in an Elevator or Escalator Injury Case?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, and other damages related to your injuries. In cases where a manufacturer’s defect is involved, punitive damages may also be pursued.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer for Elevator and Escalator Injuries
Having a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer in your corner can make a significant difference when dealing with elevator or escalator injuries. A lawyer with experience in this area will clearly explain your rights and guide you through each step of the legal process. If you’ve been injured and need help, reach out today to schedule a free consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers.
