A scary elevator accident in Brooklyn left several people shaken and at least one injured earlier this month when the platform suddenly dropped. The freight elevator in question was loaded down with 25 people and a pile of IT equipment when the hoist malfunctioned and the lift plummeted toward the basement. Thankfully, halfway down the shaft, the emergency braking system kicked in and did stop the car before it hit the bottom. However, the jolt injured at least one of the victims, jarring bones in their back.
The Department of Buildings immediately launched an investigation into this latest elevator accident in Brooklyn. They will undoubtedly be looking at the inspection and maintenance records to see if the lift was routinely inspected and repaired. If those records are found to be lacking or repairs were made improperly, the landlord who owns the building could be facing serious fines.
A recent review of elevator safety records in the city found a shocking number of lifts that were being neglected by building owners and maintenance crews. At least one contractor charged with inspecting lifts was fined for falsifying records after authorities determined that recorded inspections and repairs were never made.
This lackadaisical approach to elevator safety combined with the increasing number of aging lifts in the city has led to something of a crisis in New York. This crisis has spurred the city into reinvigorating their inspection process and more serious violations for negligent parties. But this increased scrutiny does nothing to help the victims after an accident has occurred. Problems with elevators include misleveling (creating a tripping hazard), doors closing too quickly and braking issues among other things. Property owners and elevator maintenance companies that they hire are to required to inspect and maintain the elevators regularly and make the necessary repairs.
The legal team at the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel can help. If you have been injured in an elevator accident, speak with an experienced New York City elevator accident attorney today to learn your rights. Call 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 for your free consultation.