A Guide to Compensation for Automatic Door Accidents

Learn what steps to take, who may be liable, and how to maximize your compensation in Montana after getting injured by an automatic or revolving door

Automatic doors are a common feature in hotels, ski resorts, airports, grocery stores, and other public places, offering convenience and accessibility. However, when these doors malfunction, they can pose a serious safety risk, leading to injuries for unsuspecting individuals. 

This article will explore the potential dangers associated with malfunctioning automatic doors, delve into liability issues, and outline the steps you can take if you’re injured due to a door malfunction in Montana.

Are automatic doors safe?

Although automatic doors are generally considered safe, it’s important to note that hundreds of people are injured by them annually, with about 1,300 people injured in the U.S. in 2022 alone. When automatic doors malfunction or are improperly maintained, they can cause a range of injuries, including:

• Pinching and crushing injuries. These occur when the doors close too quickly or with too much force, trapping a person’s limbs and potentially leading to broken bones or even finger amputations.
• Impact injuries. If the sensors fail to detect a person, the doors may close abruptly, causing blunt-force trauma to the head, shoulders, or other body parts.
• Trip and fall injuries. Malfunctioning doors can open or close unevenly, creating a tripping hazard that can result in sprains, fractures, back injuries, and brain injuries, among others.

While user error can sometimes contribute to these injuries, these doors are designed with safety mechanisms that should be able to prevent such accidents when functioning properly.

Can automatic doors crush you?

Yes, automatic doors can potentially crush you if they malfunction or are improperly maintained. If the sensors that detect when a person is in the doorway fail or are not calibrated correctly, the doors can close with too much force, leading to severe pinching or crushing injuries. 

Small children are particularly at risk due to their height and slower reaction times.

Can I file a lawsuit if I’m injured by an automatic door?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit if you’re injured by an automatic door. In such cases, several parties may be held liable, depending on the circumstances surrounding the injury.

• Property owners. They are responsible for ensuring that their premises, including automatic doors, are safe for visitors. If they fail to properly maintain the doors or neglect necessary repairs, they may be liable for any resulting injuries.
• Manufacturers. If the injury was caused by a defect in the design or manufacturing of the automatic door, the manufacturer could be held responsible. This includes any failure to meet safety standards or provide adequate warnings about potential hazards.
• Maintenance companies. If a third-party company is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the automatic doors and they fail to perform their duties correctly, resulting in a malfunction, they could be liable for injuries.
• Installers. If the door was improperly installed, leading to malfunction and injury, the company or individuals responsible for the installation might be held accountable.

To pursue a lawsuit, you would generally need to prove that the responsible party was negligent and that their negligence directly caused your injury.

This process typically involves gathering evidence, such as maintenance records, witness statements, and expert testimony, to support your claim. Photos of the accident scene can also be extremely helpful, especially if there are any noticeable defects in the door.

A local Montana personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

What steps should I take if I’m injured by an automatic door to recover compensation?

If you’re injured by an automatic door and seek to recover compensation, it’s essential to take several steps to protect your rights and build a strong case. Here’s what we recommend that you should do:

1. Gather evidence. As long as you’re physically able to do so, the first thing you should do is collect as much evidence as you can from the scene of the accident, as this can significantly strengthen your claim. This includes:
   • Taking photos or videos of the automatic door, the area around it, and any visible injuries.
   • Recording the date, time, and location of the incident.
   • Talking with any witnesses and obtaining their contact information.
   • Preserving any clothing or personal items damaged during the incident.
2. Report the incident. Notify the property owner or manager about the accident as soon as possible. Also, ensure that the incident is documented in an accident report and request a copy for your records.
3. Seek medical attention. Your health and safety should be your next priority. Get immediate medical treatment for your injuries, even if they seem minor at first. Prompt medical attention will also provide documentation of your injuries, which is crucial for your claim.
4. Consult an attorney. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in premises liability or product liability cases. They can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and help you determine the best strategy for recovering compensation.
5. Avoid giving statements. Be cautious about discussing the incident with representatives from the property owner, maintenance company, or insurance companies before consulting with an attorney. Do not sign any documents or agree to any settlements without legal advice. Additionally, it’s best to avoid posting about the incident on social media because anything you say or share can be used against you, even if your account is private. 
6. Document your recovery. Keep a journal of your recovery process, noting any pain, discomfort, or limitations you experience as a result of your injury. This can help demonstrate the impact of the injury on your daily life and support your claim for compensation. Also, keep a record of any medical expenses and other related expenses, such as transportation costs for medical appointments and any lost wages due to time off work.
7. File a claim. Your attorney will help you file a claim against the responsible parties, handle negotiations with the insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court.

By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of recovering damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.

Injured by an automatic door in Montana? We can help!

Montana businesses have a responsibility to ensure the safety of everyone who visits their premises. If you’ve been injured in an automatic door accident, it’s crucial to know that you have the right to seek compensation.

The experienced Great Falls personal injury attorneys at Murphy Law Firm are here to help. With over 75 years of combined experience in premises liability and product liability claims, our attorneys are well-equipped to handle your case and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Murphy Law Firm today for a free consultation to learn how we can help maximize your claim.

References

Khoury, S. E., & Staff, I. (2024, January 31). Danger in the Doorway: automatic doors injured over 1,300 people in 2022. Https://www.kold.com. https://www.kold.com/2024/01/31/danger-doorway-automatic-doors-injured-over-1300-people-2022/