Elevator Accidents
Elevator Accidents in New York City:
When a Routine Ride Turns Dangerous
In New York, elevators aren’t a luxury; they’re part of daily life. Millions of people use them every day to get to work, get home, run errands, or visit family. Most of the time, you step in, the doors close, and you’re on your way without thinking twice. But when an elevator malfunctions, the results can be sudden, violent, and serious.
Elevators are supposed to be inspected and maintained
New York’s laws and regulations require building owners to inspect elevators regularly and keep them in safe working order. When maintenance is neglected, inspections are skipped, or repairs are delayed, a “normal ride” can become a life-changing experience.
How elevator accidents happen
Elevator incidents can take many forms, including:
-
Misleveling the elevator stops above or below the floor creates a trip hazard when entering or exiting
-
Doors that close unexpectedly or too quickly, striking passengers or trapping hands/arms
-
Sudden stops, jolts, or drops that can throw people off balance
-
Free falls
-
The most catastrophic scenario: an elevator door opens when there is no cab behind it, leading to a fall into the shaft
Some elevator malfunctions happen in an instant. Others come from a chain of smaller failures, repairs postponed, warning signs ignored, or outdated equipment left in service.
Injuries can be severe even when there’s “no crash.”
Elevator accidents can cause:
-
Broken bones and sprains from falls or misleveling
-
Head injuries and concussions
-
Neck, back, and shoulder injuries from sudden jolts or stops
-
Crushing injuries from doors or entrapment
-
In the worst cases, catastrophic or fatal injuries
Because elevators are used by everyone, including children, seniors, and people with mobility challenges, these failures can disproportionately affect the most vulnerable passengers.
What to do after an elevator accident
If you’ve been injured, these steps can help protect your health and your claim:
-
Get medical attention immediately (even if symptoms feel “minor”)
-
Take photos/video of the elevator, floor level, doors, and any warning signs
-
Note the building address, elevator number (if shown), and the time of the incident
-
Report the incident to building management and ask that an incident report be created
-
Get names/contact info for witnesses
-
Avoid recorded statements
Elevators can be serviced quickly after an incident, which can allow critical evidence to disappear quickly.
How Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik, PLLC can help
If you were injured in an elevator accident, the attorneys at Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik, PLLC can help investigate the incident and determine who may be responsible. We’ve successfully handled elevator cases and work with respected elevator experts to identify the cause of the malfunction and the parties who can be held accountable, whether that’s a building owner, management company, elevator maintenance company, or another responsible party.
Free consultation for elevator accident injuries
If an elevator malfunction caused your injury, don’t assume it was “just bad luck.” Contact Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik, PLLC to discuss what happened and learn what options may be available.
Call today or use our online form to schedule a free consultation.
Let's Meet
Every case starts with a conversation. Tell us what happened, and we’ll listen. Your consultation is free, confidential, and you’ll speak directly with an attorney who’s here to help you.