Elevators are a part of daily life in New York City, especially in high-rise buildings where stairs aren’t a practical option. But when something goes wrong, the consequences can be severe.
From abrupt drops and entrapments to faulty doors and electrical malfunctions, elevator-related injuries can result in long-term disability or even death.
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP (WRSMH), we’ve spent decades helping New Yorkers recover damages after serious accidents. This guide breaks down common causes of elevator accidents, who may be liable, and what steps you can take to protect your legal rights.
Common Causes of Elevator Accidents in NYC
Elevators are complex mechanical systems that require precise design, regular maintenance, and safe operation. When any part of this chain breaks down, the risk of injury skyrockets.
Some of the most common causes of elevator malfunction injuries include:
- Sudden drops or uncontrolled movements
- Door malfunctions (closing on limbs, opening into empty shafts)
- Entrapment due to power failure or mechanical error
- Misalignment with floors, causing trips and falls
- Overloaded cabins or faulty weight sensors
- Poor lighting or exposed wiring
- Delayed maintenance or inspection
Each of these dangers can be linked to negligence, which opens the door for a NYC premises liability claim.
Who Is Liable in an Elevator Accident?
Determining who is responsible for an elevator accident in NYC isn’t always simple. Several parties may share liability, depending on the nature of the malfunction.
Property Owners or Building Managers
In New York City, property owners have a legal obligation to keep their buildings safe and code-compliant. This includes ensuring that elevators are regularly inspected, repaired, and maintained.
If an owner fails to schedule routine inspections or ignores known problems, they may be liable under premises liability laws. This is especially true if the elevator had previously malfunctioned and the issue was never resolved.
Maintenance and Inspection Companies
Many buildings outsource elevator upkeep to third-party maintenance providers. These companies are expected to perform inspections, troubleshoot issues, and make necessary repairs. They may be liable for resulting elevator malfunction injuries if the maintenance crew:
- Failed to identify a known problem
- Neglected to complete a repair
- Used defective parts
- Improperly installed components
Elevator Manufacturers
Sometimes, accidents stem from a design or manufacturing defect. For example, a door sensor may fail to detect a person in its path, or a braking system may not engage correctly. In these cases, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability law.
A thorough investigation, including a review of the elevator’s history and forensic analysis of its parts, is key to identifying if a building code violation or defective product is to blame.
The Role of NYC Building Code Violations
Elevators in New York City are governed by strict building codes and safety regulations. These laws mandate:
- Routine inspections by the NYC Department of Buildings
- Compliance with the NYC Construction Codes and ASME A17.1
- Proper signage and certification display
- Maintenance log documentation
Violations of these codes—such as operating an elevator without up-to-date inspection certificates or failing to address repair orders—can serve as strong evidence in an elevator accident lawsuit.
At WRSMH, we routinely work with engineers and building safety experts to uncover violations that may not be immediately visible to tenants or visitors.
What to Do After an Elevator Accident
If you’ve been injured in an elevator, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can make a big difference in both your recovery and your case:
- Call 911 or Seek Emergency Care – Your safety is the first priority. Even if injuries seem minor, internal damage or spine trauma may not be immediately obvious.
- Report the Incident – Notify building management or the property owner right away. Get the names and contact information of anyone involved, including witnesses.
- Document Everything – Take photos of the elevator, the surrounding area, and your injuries. Keep track of medical visits, expenses, and any lost income.
- Avoid Giving Statements – Don’t discuss the incident with insurance adjusters or sign anything without legal advice.
- Consult an Experienced Attorney – Elevator accidents often involve multiple layers of liability. A skilled legal team can investigate, preserve evidence, and determine whether your case involves elevator maintenance failures, NYC building code violations, or both.
Types of Compensation in an Elevator Accident Claim
Victims of elevator accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Disability and disfigurement
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (in fatal cases)
In some cases, punitive damages can also be pursued, especially if gross negligence or willful misconduct is involved.
Staten Island Elevator Claims and Borough-Specific Concerns
While most elevator injury claims in NYC occur in Manhattan, Queens, or Brooklyn due to the high volume of high-rise buildings, Staten Island elevator claims are on the rise—particularly in public housing, government buildings, and new developments.
In Staten Island and other boroughs, property owners may try to shift blame to contractors or city agencies. These cases require a nuanced understanding of municipal liability and strict adherence to notice-of-claim deadlines, especially when suing a government agency.
WRSMH has extensive experience navigating borough-specific regulations and ensuring compliance with the applicable legal procedures.
Reasons to Choose WRSMH
Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, is one of New York City’s premier personal injury law firms. With more than 50 years of experience and over $2 billion recovered for our clients, we have a proven record of holding negligent parties accountable—even when those parties include landlords, large corporations, and public agencies.
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial and work with industry-leading experts to uncover the truth behind your injury. Our attorneys have also been consistently recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers in America, and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum for their commitment to justice and results.
Your Filing Time May Be Limited
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically three years from the date of the incident. But claims involving city-owned buildings or public housing may have a much shorter notice-of-claim deadline—as little as 90 days. Delaying legal action can weaken your case or result in lost rights.
Speak With Our Trusted NYC Elevator Injury Attorneys Today
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in an elevator accident, don’t face the system alone. At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, we offer personalized attention, aggressive advocacy, and the resources needed to take on powerful defendants.
Call our law firm at (212) 986-7353 for a free consultation with one of our New York City elevator accident lawyers today. We’re ready to fight for the justice and the compensation you deserve.