Why the standard of care is so high

California courts treat elevators much like buses and other common carriers, meaning owners and operators must use the highest degree of care for passenger safety—a stricter standard than ordinary negligence.

What causes these accidents

Common causes include misleveling (the car stopping above or below the floor), sudden drops or stops, doors closing on passengers, poor maintenance, and defective components. Escalator injuries often involve entrapment, missing teeth on steps, or abrupt stops.

Who can be held responsible

Depending on the cause, the building owner (premises liability), the maintenance/inspection contractor, and the equipment manufacturer (product liability) may all share responsibility. Inspection and maintenance records are key evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are elevators considered common carriers in California?

Generally yes. California treats elevators much like common carriers, so owners and operators owe passengers the highest degree of care—a stricter standard than ordinary negligence.

Who is liable for an escalator injury?

It depends on the cause—the property owner for unsafe conditions, the maintenance company for poor upkeep, or the manufacturer for a defective component. More than one party is often responsible.

What evidence matters in these cases?

Inspection and maintenance records, the state elevator permit, surveillance footage, and expert examination of the equipment are central to proving what went wrong.