Indianapolis Defective Wheelchair Lawyer
Millions of individuals all over the world rely on wheelchairs to get around when they can no longer walk or stand for extended periods of time. Though these devices are meant to make life easier for disabled and elderly individuals, sometimes the wheelchairs themselves can lead to accident and injury when they malfunction or are inherently defective.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a wheelchair accident caused by a defective wheelchair, you may be able to bring the manufacturer to court in a product liability claim for financial compensation.
This monetary settlement can help pay for medical bills related to the incident, costs related to recovery, and lost wages due to missed work. To learn more about your legal rights following an injury of this nature, contact an experienced Indianapolis defective wheelchair lawyer at Hankey Marks & Crider today by calling (317) 634-8565.
Recognizing Potential Wheelchair Hazards
The following steps can be taken to inspect a wheelchair for potential defects before an accident occurs and operate the chair in a safe manner:
- Check the chair’s brakes, wheels, and any other moving parts you can find.
- Never use a chair that feels unstable in any way.
- Do not attempt to ride over curbs or tilt the chair for any reason.
- Keep your eyes open for wet or icy conditions on sidewalks or ramps and avoid these environments.
- Do not climb an incline greater than nine degrees.
- If you are assisting an individual in a wheelchair, always tell them before you make a movement and do not catch them off guard.
Even if you take proper safety precautions, a faulty or defective wheelchair can lead to serious injury. Wheelchair accidents can also be caused by unsafe conditions at a particular establishment, falling under the legal realm of premises liability. For example, if a wheelchair ramp is unsteady or the floors are not properly maintained, the management staff or owner of the property may be liable for any resulting injuries. As with any legal case, fault can be difficult to prove, so you should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has been injured in a wheelchair accident caused by a defective wheelchair, contact the Indianapolis defective wheelchair lawyers of Hankey Marks & Crider at (317) 634-8565 for a free initial consultation.