Woman Loses Toe In Retail Store Escalator Accident

This case involves an injury that occurred on an escalator at a department store. A woman who was wearing sandals was ascending to the third floor of the store. As she was getting off the escalator, the escalator suffered a sharp jerking motion, causing the woman’s foot to become trapped between the escalator step and the platform. The woman lost a toe as a result of the incident. It was alleged that the escalator in question was not regularly inspected which lead to a range of potential safety risks. An expert in escalator design and maintenance was sought to examine this escalator and opine on what caused the accident.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Please briefly describe your experience with the design and engineering of escalators?

2. Do you have experience inspecting escalators for possible failure?

Expert Witness Response E-009837

I am an expert in escalator manufacturing, troubleshooting, and repair. I have taught elevator and escalator technicians working toward their certification for 30+ years. As a technician, I serviced, troubleshot, and repaired escalators. I also worked in a sales capacity for various contractors in the elevator and escalator industry. I have served in several escalator injury cases and have reviewed and conducted inspections for cases with similar circumstances.