Many people in the United States use escalators on a daily basis. They are often the primary use of transport between floors in shopping malls, movie theaters and airports. They are generally safe for people of all abilities to use. However, sometimes problems with the functioning of escalators can pose problems for escalator users.
If your child has been injured when using an escalator in Valdosta, it may be possible to claim damages. This compensation will help to cover medical bills and other expenses that resulted from the incident. Additionally, you may be able to gain compensation for the pain and suffering caused. However, you must be able to prove that the premises owner or management in question was negligent, and that this negligence led to the accident.
Proving negligence when a child was injured on an escalator
Children tend to have a higher risk of being injured on an escalator. This is because they may more easily miss their step while using the mode of transport. They also tend to be more curious, and this can lead to getting their hands or shoes trapped.
While parents of young children have the primary responsibility to keep their children safe, it can be possible to hold the premises owner liable when there was a fault with the escalator.
For example, if a child gets their shoe laces trapped in the escalator, the next course of action would be to stop the movement of the escalator. If the emergency stop button does not work, the child could become seriously injured. These injuries would be attributed to the malfunctioning of the emergency stop button. The premises management has the responsibility to maintain the correct functioning of all aspects of the escalator.
Generally speaking, escalators should be designed with all users in mind, and this includes children, the elderly and the disabled. This means that escalators should have steps that are small enough for younger children to use. Additionally, escalators should never jerk or unexpectedly move, because this could cause a child’s injury.
It is important that you take action after your child’s injury on an escalator. Doing so could help to prevent another family from suffering in the same way. You should take the time to understand the law in Georgia and be proactive in your approach.