Last Updated on April 24, 2025 by tanya

 

Injured in a Lift-Related Accident

 

How To Claim Lift Accident Compensation

 

Lifts are generally safe to use, but if something goes wrong and you are injured in a lift-related accident, you may want to claim compensation. Carrying hundreds of people between floors in multi-storey buildings, lifts are a daily part of life for many. Furthermore, we trust that they will move us safely from floor to floor in a building, without really thinking about it.

Building operators and management are required to ensure lifts are safe to use with regular maintenance checks. So, while lift accidents are not common, unfortunately they can happen. It is a traumatic experience for anyone to be involved in a lift-related accident.

If this has happened to you, you may consider filing a claim for compensation and First Personal Injury can help you with this process.

 

The Risks of Lift-Related Accidents

While lift technology has advanced over the years, accidents still do happen. They can occur due to various reasons, such as:

 

• Mechanical Failure: Faulty cables, malfunctioning doors, or outdated components can lead to sudden drops or stops.
• Poor Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial. Neglect can cause critical systems to fail.
• Electrical Malfunctions: Power outages or electrical surges can cause lifts to halt abruptly or trap passengers.
• Human Error: Improper use by occupants, or mistakes made by lift operators in some service buildings, can trigger accidents.
• Design Flaws: Some lifts, especially older models, may have design issues that increase the risk of injury.

 

These risks highlight the importance of regular maintenance and adherence to safety standards. However, even with proper precautions, accidents may still occur.

 

Types of Physical Harm from Lift Accidents

The physical injuries sustained in lift-related accidents can vary in severity and may include the following:

 

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Sudden stops or jerks can lead to neck and back injuries.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Falls or sudden impacts within the lift can cause serious bone injuries.
• Head and Brain Injuries: In cases where a person falls or is struck by a lift door, it may result in a head injury.
• Crush Injuries: Malfunctioning doors or faulty safety sensors are a high risk for causing crushing injuries.
• Spinal Injuries: Severe drops or forceful impacts may result in spinal damage.

 

Physical injuries generally require medical treatment with time off work, which can create a financial burden on top of the pain and suffering.

 

Psychological Trauma After a Lift Accident

The psychological impact of a lift accident can be often overlooked. However, you could potentially develop claustrophobia, which is a fear of enclosed spaces, following an accident in a lift.

Additionally, you may suffer from flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety (PTSD) following the incident. You may also feel as if you are constantly on edge or hypervigilant, especially being near a lift.

It’s important to recognise that psychological harm can be debilitating and may require therapy to manage the impact following an accident.

 

When Can You Start a Claim for Compensation?

If you’ve been injured in a lift-related accident which was the fault of a third party, you may be entitled to pursue a personal injury claim. You will be required to prove the accident caused the harm you’ve suffered. Here’s how to get started:

 

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

It is important to get medical attention to diagnose and treat any injuries. A thorough medical report will also serve as evidence if you decide to file a claim.

 

Gather Evidence

You will need to obtain documents which are relevant to the incident:

• Photos or videos of the accident scene.
• Contact information of any witnesses.
• Lift maintenance records (if possible).
• Reports filed with the building management or lift operator.

 

Report the Incident

It’s crucial to promptly inform the property owner, building management, or lift maintenance company about the accident. They may have an official procedure for reporting such incidents.

 

Three Year Time Limit

Generally a personal injury claim must be started within three years from the date of the injury. Although there are exceptions for children under 18.

 

How Compensation Can Help

Compensation isn’t just about money. It’s about restoring balance to your life after a traumatic event. Successful claims can typically cover:

 

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, rehabilitation, medication, and future medical needs.
• Loss of Earnings: Compensation for time off work or loss of future earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: Both physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.

 

How To Start a ‘No Win, No Fee’ Claim

You don’t have to navigate the impact of being in a lift-related accident alone. If you feel you have been injured due to negligence, an experienced personal injury lawyer can do a comprehensive assessment of your case. They can also advise you regarding potential compensation.

First Personal Injury can guide you through the process to get the compensation you deserve. We work with experienced lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online for a free consultation.