If you were injured in an elevator or escalator accident in Manhattan, Hill & Moin LLP is ready to help. Our dedicated attorneys understand how serious these injuries can be. We handle every detail — from investigating the cause of the accident and gathering evidence, to negotiating with insurers or filing a lawsuit if needed. You pay nothing upfront — only if we win your case.
Common Types of Elevator & Escalator Accidents
We represent victims of many kinds of elevator- or escalator-related accidents, such as:
Sudden elevator drops or free-fall
Elevator stops between floors or leveling issues (door misalignment, uneven floors)
Door malfunctions — closing too quickly, failing to detect obstructions
Escalator or lift malfunctions (broken steps, faulty handrails, abrupt stops)
Entrapment or crushing injuries from defective components
Slip, trip or fall inside or near elevators — faulty flooring, wet surfaces, insufficient lighting
Failure to properly inspect or maintain equipment
Accidents involving elevators in residential buildings, commercial towers, offices, or public facilities
These accidents can happen anywhere — from apartment buildings and offices to retail towers, subway stations, or public transit hubs.
Why You Need a Specialized Elevator Accident Lawyer in Manhattan
Elevator and escalator accident claims are legally complex. Hill & Moin LLP brings critical advantages:
Thorough investigation — we collect maintenance records, safety logs, building inspection reports, expert evaluations, and any available video footage.
Identification of responsible parties — liability may rest with building owners, maintenance contractors, elevator manufacturers, or property managers. We help determine who should be held accountable.
Comprehensive damage evaluation — beyond immediate medical bills, we assess long-term consequences: rehabilitation, mobility aids, future medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Expert handling of strict legal requirements and deadlines — many elevator accident cases in New York require timely legal filings or special notices, especially if a government or municipal entity is involved.
No upfront cost to you — we work on contingency. You pay only if we secure compensation.
Having an experienced lawyer increases your chances of full, fair recovery and reduces your stress during a difficult time.
What You Should Do Immediately After an Elevator Accident
If you experience or witness an elevator or escalator accident, doing the right things quickly can protect your health and strengthen your claim:
Seek medical attention — even if injuries seem minor at first; some effects (concussions, internal injuries) may appear later.
Report the incident to building management or facility staff; request a written incident report or record.
Take photos/videos of the elevator or escalator — including defects (door, floor, mechanical parts), surroundings (floor condition, lighting), and any visible injuries or hazards.
Collect names and contact information from any witnesses or other passengers.
Preserve any relevant personal items (clothing, bags, mobility aids), especially if they were damaged — they may serve as evidence.
Keep all medical records, bills, rehab or therapy receipts, and documentation of lost wages.
Avoid giving recorded statements or signing releases for insurers or building personnel before consulting a lawyer.
Prompt medical care and documentation are vital — delayed treatment or missing evidence can severely affect your claim.
Types of Compensation You May Pursue
Depending on the severity and consequences of your accident, you may be eligible for compensation covering:
Home or living modifications (if needed after injury)
We strive to identify and recover all losses — not just the obvious costs — so you receive full, fair compensation.
When You Should Contact Us Immediately
You should reach out to Hill & Moin LLP right away if:
The accident caused serious injuries or long-term impairment
The cause of the accident is uncertain or involves potential negligence (e.g. maintenance issues, improper upkeep)
The elevator or escalator malfunctioned (doors, brakes, leveling), or there’s reason to suspect mechanical defects
There is missing or insufficient maintenance history or safety records
Witnesses saw the accident happen, but management or property owners want to downplay or deny responsibility
You need help dealing with insurers, building management, or potential defendants
You want to ensure deadlines and legal notices are filed correctly to preserve your rights
Because elevator-accident cases often involve multiple parties and strict procedural requirements, early legal representation can be critical.
How Hill & Moin Handles Your Case
When you choose our firm, you get full-service legal support:
Free consultation — we will review your accident, injuries, and legal options without cost or obligation.
Comprehensive evidence collection — including safety logs, maintenance history, building code compliance, expert assessment, photos or video evidence, and witness statements.
Detailed claim evaluation — we calculate current and future medical needs, disability impacts, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Aggressive negotiation or litigation — we pursue fair compensation through settlement or trial if necessary.
Clear communication and support — we guide you step by step and handle all legal procedures, giving you space to heal and recover.
We understand elevator accidents can change lives. Our goal is to help you rebuild with financial security and justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer if I was hurt in an elevator accident? Yes. Elevator accidents often involve complicated liability, multiple possible defendants (owners, maintenance companies, inspectors, manufacturers), and strict filing requirements. A lawyer ensures your case is handled properly and all damages are pursued.
What does it cost to hire your firm? Nothing upfront. Hill & Moin LLP works on a contingency-fee basis — you pay only if we win.
What if I share some responsibility (e.g. I tried to exit the elevator while it was malfunctioning)? Even if partial fault applies, you may still recover compensation under comparative fault principles. The exact amount depends on your share of fault.
How long do I have to file a claim after an elevator accident in New York? Typically, personal injury claims must be filed within three years. If the defendant is a government or municipal entity, special notice or shorter deadlines may apply. Early legal consultation is strongly recommended.
What should I bring to my first consultation? Bring any photos or video from the scene, contact info for witnesses, elevator or building details (address, elevator number or building name), medical records, bills, and any correspondence with building management or insurers.
Get Help Today
If you or a loved one was hurt in an elevator or escalator accident in Manhattan, don’t try to navigate the aftermath alone. Hill & Moin LLP is ready to fight for your rights — medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term consequences. Call us now at (212) 668-6000 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.