When you think back to your younger years, you may recall your fascination with escalators. Like most children, you likely thought of them as a fun carnival ride that you never had to wait in line or pay for. But now that you are a parent, you may cringe at the thought of your children playing on a moving staircase considering how dangerous they can be for an unsuspecting youngster.
If you and your beloved brood take regular trips to malls, airports, museums, and other venues that normally have moving staircases, it is wise to learn some tips that will help keep your children protected when using them. Continue reading to learn what you can do to prevent your children from suffering escalator injuries.
Escalator Accident Statistics in the U.S.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Consumer Product Safety Commission, escalator accidents result in an average of 30 fatalities and 17,000 seriously injured victims, every year. Of these injuries and deaths, many of them (arguably half, but not technically proven) are children. Unfortunately, kids do love these mechanical staircases, which is why it is important to teach them proper safety.
Escalator Maintenance and Liability
The regulations surrounding maintenance and inspection of escalators vary from state to state. Most states place the liability in the hands of the property owner, obligating them to maintain safe and functional escalators, as well as, conducting the necessary inspections and checkups to guarantee this level of safety.
Escalators and Children Safety
It is suggested by the Consumer Product Safety Commission that nearly a quarter of all escalator accidents involve injuries to the hands and feet, including trapped shoes and shoelaces. When it comes to children, this rings true in many cases. Kids have had their fingers and toes trapped in the gaps between the treads, steps, and sides of escalators. When this happens, they can suffer serious cuts, disfigurement, and maiming.
What You Can Do to Better Protect Your Children
Here are some helpful tips that will keep your family protected when using escalators and similar types of moving staircases or walkways:
Teach them to stand in the center of the step, rather than the sides. Keeping them away from the railings can help reduce the chances of getting their fingers and toes jammed inside the gaps.
Adjust or remove any loose clothing or accessories before stepping onto an escalator. Articles of clothing like scarves, long skirts and dresses, frayed hems, and more can get caught or tangled in the moving parts of an escalator.
Avoid using a moving staircase if your children are wearing flip flops, slip-ons, or other shoes that expose their toes or can easily cause tripping accidents.
If you are with very young children, such as toddlers or preschoolers, it is best to carry them when on an escalator. For older children, be sure to always hold their hand the entire time.
If your children have a fear of escalators, avoid using them altogether. Instead, opt for an elevator, standard staircase, or ramp.
Escalator Injury Claims for Children
Contact a seasoned Indianapolis personal injury lawyer for information about receiving compensation after your child has been seriously injured or killed by an escalator or moving staircase. They will tell you everything you need to know about making a child injury claim, and help you recover the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Was your child or teenager recently injured in an accident that was caused by another’s negligence or carelessness? Contact Carl Brizzi LAW at 317-636-7497 to make an Indiana personal injury claim for your child. We offer free initial consultations and never collect lawyer fees unless we prevail for you. We also do hospital and home visits for consultations.
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