Elevator and Escalator Injury Claims in Florida Vacation Properties
Many vacation resorts, hotels, and condominium rentals throughout Florida rely on elevators and escalators to move guests safely. When these systems are not properly inspected or maintained, children can suffer devastating injuries in a matter of seconds.
At Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP (DDRB), we represent families whose children have been seriously injured because of unsafe elevators, escalators, and other common-area hazards at vacation properties.
What Causes Elevator and Escalator Accidents?
Elevators and escalators require routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and prompt repairs. When property owners or maintenance companies fail to address known problems, serious accidents can occur.
Common hazards include:
- Malfunctioning door sensors that fail to detect a child
- Elevators that stop above or below the floor, creating trip hazards
- Escalator comb plates or side gaps that trap shoes, clothing, or fingers
- Sudden stops or mechanical failures that cause passengers to fall
- Poor maintenance of emergency braking or safety systems
Many of these accidents could have been prevented through proper inspection and maintenance.
Serious Injuries to Children
Because of their size, children are especially vulnerable to elevator and escalator accidents. These incidents can result in life-changing injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Crush injuries
- Amputations of fingers, hands, or feet
- Fractures
- Severe lacerations
- Degloving injuries requiring reconstructive surgery
Many children require multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care.
Who May Be Liable?
Several parties may share responsibility for an elevator or escalator accident, depending on how it occurred.
Potentially liable parties include:
- Resort owners
- Hotel operators
- Condominium associations
- Property management companies
- Elevator or escalator maintenance contractors
- Equipment manufacturers if a defective component contributed to the failure
Florida property owners have a duty to maintain reasonably safe common areas for guests. Failure to inspect or repair dangerous conditions may result in premises liability.
How Elevator Accident Claims Are Investigated
These cases often involve technical evidence that can disappear quickly if it is not preserved.
An investigation may include:
- Elevator maintenance and repair records
- State inspection and certification reports
- Surveillance video
- Electronic diagnostic data
- Witness statements
- Photographs of the accident scene
Our legal team promptly sends preservation, or spoliation, letters to prevent critical evidence from being destroyed.
Frequently Asked Question
Who is responsible if my child is injured in an elevator at a vacation property?
Responsibility depends on the facts of the case. Liability may rest with the property owner, condominium association, hotel operator, maintenance company, or another party responsible for inspecting and maintaining the equipment. A thorough investigation is often necessary to determine exactly what caused the accident.
Contact DDRB
Elevator and escalator accidents involving children are often preventable. When negligent maintenance or unsafe conditions lead to a catastrophic injury, families have the right to seek compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable.
The attorneys at Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP investigate serious elevator and escalator accidents at Airbnb properties, vacation rentals, hotels, resorts, and condominiums throughout Florida, helping families pursue the compensation needed for medical care, rehabilitation, and future treatment.