Elevators are expected to operate safely in office buildings, apartments, hotels, hospitals, and shopping centers. When an elevator malfunctions or is improperly maintained, serious injuries can occur in an instant. If you or a loved one was injured in an elevator accident in Georgia, The C. Paul Law Firm P.C. can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation under Georgia law.
Elevator Accident Claims in Georgia
Elevator accident claims often arise under premises liability, negligence, or product liability, depending on the cause of the incident. Property owners, maintenance companies, and equipment manufacturers may all share responsibility.
Georgia applies a modified comparative negligence rule. An injured person may recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault, with recovery reduced by their percentage of responsibility.
Common Causes of Elevator Accidents
|
Cause |
Examples |
|
Poor Maintenance |
Failure to inspect, repair, or service elevators |
|
Mechanical Failure |
Brake malfunctions, sudden drops or stops |
|
Door Malfunctions |
Doors closing unexpectedly or failing to open |
|
Leveling Errors |
Elevator stopping above or below floor level |
|
Electrical Failures |
Power or control system malfunctions |
|
Code Violations |
Failure to comply with safety regulations |
Types of Elevator Accidents
Elevator accident cases may involve:
- Sudden drops or free-fall incidents
- Misleveling leading to trip-and-fall injuries
- Doors closing on passengers
- Entrapment incidents
- Elevator shaft falls
- Emergency stop injuries
Each type of accident requires a careful technical investigation.
Who May Be Liable for an Elevator Accident?
Depending on the circumstances, liability may extend to:
- Property owners or building managers
- Elevator maintenance and service companies
- Elevator manufacturers or parts suppliers
- Contractors responsible for installation or repairs
Identifying all responsible parties is essential to pursuing full compensation.
Injuries Commonly Caused by Elevator Accidents
Elevator accidents can cause serious injuries, including:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord and back injuries
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Crush injuries
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death in severe cases
Victims often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
What to Do After an Elevator Accident in Georgia
To protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Report the incident to building management
- Document the elevator, location, and injuries
- Obtain witness information if possible
- Avoid signing incident reports or releases without legal guidance
Prompt documentation can be critical in elevator accident claims.
Compensation Available in Elevator Accident Cases
Injured individuals may be entitled to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
The amount of compensation depends on injury severity and long-term impact.
Statute of Limitations for Elevator Accident Claims in Georgia
Most elevator accident injury claims in Georgia must be filed within two years from the date of the incident. Claims involving government-owned buildings may involve additional notice requirements.
Timely legal review is essential to preserve your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are property owners responsible for elevator safety?
Yes. Property owners generally have a duty to maintain safe elevators.
Can maintenance companies be liable?
Yes. Service providers may be responsible for negligent inspections or repairs.
Do elevator cases require expert analysis?
Often, yes. Technical experts are commonly used to determine causation.
Why Choose The C. Paul Law Firm P.C.
- Experience handling complex premises and equipment liability cases
- Knowledge of Georgia negligence and premises liability law
- Strategic investigation involving technical experts
- Clear, professional communication
- Commitment to ethical, client-focused representation
We work diligently to hold negligent parties accountable for preventable elevator injuries.
Speak With an Elevator Accident Lawyer in Georgia
If you or a loved one was injured in an elevator accident in Georgia, The C. Paul Law Firm P.C. is ready to help you understand your legal options. Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation. The C. Paul Law Firm P.C. is located at 1870 The Exchange, Suite 200, #1387, Atlanta, GA 30339. You can reach us by phone at (212) 551-PAUL or visit www.cpaullawfirm.com. Reach out today to speak with a member of our team and begin your path toward recovery.