Nearly half of Canada’s elevators are found in Ontario. Many people ride elevators every day when they shop, go to work or make their way to and from their home in an apartment building or condominium tower. Most users probably seldom give the mechanical conveyance a second thought. Recently released data, however, shows that elevators are causing more and more injuries every year.
The Technical Standards and Safety Authority, the organization that oversees elevator operation in Ontario, recently released incident data for 2011 through 2016. During that time, six people lost their lives in elevator accidents, and 1,225 people suffered injuries, including 69 victims who suffered permanent damage. The annual rate of incidents increased by an average of 14 percent annually during that time.
The types of injuries ranged from bruises and cuts to cracked or broken bones. In one especially horrible incident, an elderly man lost both his legs when a malfunctioning elevator crushed them. He later succumbed to his injuries. Common causes of injuries include elevators misaligned with the floor, electrical fires and broken or loose panelling due to vandalism and/or poor maintenance.
Who is to blame for an elevator accident can be hard to determine. Possible candidates include the building owner, the elevator manufacturer and/or the installer. At a time like this, it may be a good idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer’s experience with claims regarding elevator injuries and similar incidents may be beneficial for the victim and his or her family. If you, a friend or a family member are a victim of someone’s negligence, it makes sense to contact a personal injury attorney to learn what steps should be taken to protect one’s legal rights.
