If an elevator door hits you in the head in California, you may have a claim if an unsafe condition or careless maintenance contributed to your injuries. Start by identifying the specific elevator, who controlled it, and what records show about the door.
Who May Be Responsible for an Elevator Door Injury?
The building owner or operator may be responsible for how an elevator is inspected and kept in service. A maintenance company may also be responsible if careless work on a sensor, door mechanism, or controller contributed to the injury. The maintenance contract, service history, and who could take the elevator out of service can help identify each party’s role.
California generally requires reasonable care in managing property. Commercial elevator operators may owe passengers a heightened duty of care under California Civil Code section 2100. The applicable duty depends on the circumstances. See Gomez v. Superior Court (2005) 35 Cal.4th 1125.
What Evidence Can Help Explain Why the Door Closed?
Write down the address, floor, elevator number, date, and approximate time. Report the incident to building management and request a copy of the incident report. Keep witness contact information and any photos or videos you already have. Keep records of your medical care and any missed work.
Ask management in writing to preserve footage from the lobby, landing, and elevator car for the time surrounding the incident. Maintenance work orders, inspection reports, prior complaints, and repair records may help establish whether the same door had earlier problems. The elevator number matters because buildings with several cars may keep separate records for each one.
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice.
Get Help Now
Work directly with an experienced California personal injury attorney. The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez & Associates represents injured people statewide. Norman Gregory Fernandez has practiced law since 1997. Call 800-816-1529 for a free consultation or contact our office.
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