Experienced Elevator Accident Injury Attorney in Henderson Nevada – Who is Liable? 

Elevator accidents may seem rare, but when they happen, the consequences can be catastrophic. From serious injuries to long-term disability, victims and their families often find themselves overwhelmed physically, emotionally, and financially. At Jerez Law, we understand how life-changing an elevator injury can be—and we are here to fight for justice on your behalf.

In Henderson and throughout Clark County, property owners and maintenance companies have a legal duty to ensure that elevators are safe for public use. When this duty is breached—whether due to poor maintenance, mechanical failure, or human error—innocent people can suffer severe harm. Our experienced team works relentlessly to identify all liable parties, preserve critical evidence, and pursue maximum compensation for our clients.

Elevator injuries can range from broken bones and spinal cord trauma to traumatic brain injuries and wrongful death. These incidents often occur in residential buildings, hotels, casinos, hospitals, or commercial spaces where regular use is expected. When such accidents happen, it’s not just a question of physical recovery—it’s also about making sure those responsible are held accountable under Nevada premises liability laws. At Jerez Law, we advocate for full compensation to cover your immediate medical needs and the long-term effects on your health and livelihood.

Our firm takes a proactive approach by working closely with engineers, safety inspectors, and medical professionals to build a solid case that reflects the true impact of your injury. We carefully review maintenance logs, surveillance footage, and inspection reports to determine whether negligence or code violations contributed to the accident. With a proven track record in personal injury litigation across Henderson and Southern Nevada, Jerez Law stands ready to hold negligent parties—whether corporate property owners or third-party contractors—accountable for their actions.

What Does My Henderson Elevator Accident Lawyer Need?

If you’ve been injured in an elevator accident in Henderson, Nevada, the documentation you provide can make or break your personal injury claim. These cases rely heavily on proving negligence and showing the full impact of your injuries—physically, emotionally, and financially. To support your case effectively, your elevator accident attorney will need a range of critical documents. From maintenance records to medical reports, each piece of evidence helps establish who is liable and what compensation you may be entitled to. The sooner you can gather this information, the faster your legal team at Jerez Law can begin protecting your rights.

Begin by securing any reports that document the incident. This may include building maintenance logs, elevator inspection certificates, and official incident reports from property management or emergency personnel. Visual evidence like photos of the elevator, the scene, and your injuries can be vital in showing what happened. Additionally, your lawyer will need detailed medical records, including your diagnosis, treatment, and long-term outlook. These documents illustrate the severity of your injuries and help justify compensation for hospital bills, ongoing treatment, pain and suffering, and lost wages. A complete paper trail gives your Henderson legal team the leverage needed to fight for a full and fair settlement.

Security Video

Surveillance footage is often the most compelling form of evidence in an elevator accident case. Security cameras in residential complexes, hotels, casinos, and commercial buildings can capture exactly what happened in the moments leading up to, during, and after the incident. This can include elevator malfunctions, improper door closures, sudden drops, or other dangerous behaviors. The video can also reveal how long it took for assistance to arrive and whether safety protocols were followed. Since most surveillance systems automatically overwrite recordings every few days, it’s crucial to request a copy of the footage immediately after the accident. At Jerez Law, we act quickly to send formal evidence preservation requests to building management to ensure vital video footage is not lost.

Elevator Work Order Records

Work order records detail the maintenance and repair history of the elevator involved in your accident. These documents can uncover a troubling pattern of repeated malfunctions, delayed repairs, or ignored safety concerns. In many cases, building owners or maintenance contractors may have known about ongoing issues but failed to take adequate steps to resolve them. A review of work orders can also identify whether the elevator was being serviced by a qualified professional and whether those services were completed thoroughly and on time. These records allow our legal team at Jerez Law to demonstrate negligence and pinpoint exactly where liability lies—whether with the building owner, elevator company, or a third-party service provider.

Load Testing Records

Load testing is a mandatory procedure that ensures elevators can safely carry their intended capacity. These tests are designed to evaluate the elevator’s performance under stress and are typically required on a regular basis under Nevada safety codes. If these tests were skipped, falsified, or not properly recorded, it could be a strong indication of regulatory non-compliance and gross negligence. Load testing records can help establish whether the elevator’s mechanical components—such as the brakes, cables, and counterweights—were functioning properly at the time of the accident. When our attorneys request these documents, we’re looking for signs that building owners prioritized cost-cutting over safety, which can significantly bolster your claim for compensation.

Elevator Company and Building Management Correspondence

Internal communications between building management and the elevator service company often reveal early warnings or red flags that were overlooked. These may include complaints from tenants or staff, notices of mechanical issues, or service delay notifications. Emails, maintenance requests, and official letters can show that responsible parties were aware of ongoing problems and either delayed addressing them or attempted inadequate repairs. In elevator injury cases, proving that the accident was preventable is key—and these correspondences can be the proof needed to hold those parties accountable. Our team at Jerez Law routinely uncovers such communications through discovery to help support your legal claim.

State Inspection Reports

In Nevada, elevators must be inspected regularly by state-certified professionals to ensure compliance with safety regulations. These inspections generate official reports that outline the condition of the elevator, note any violations, and indicate whether it passed or failed. If an elevator involved in an accident recently failed an inspection—or if inspections were missed altogether—that evidence can directly support your personal injury case. Reviewing state inspection reports allows us to trace safety lapses back to their source and prove that your accident was not a fluke, but a foreseeable result of negligence. We obtain these records early in the legal process to strengthen the foundation of your claim.

Invoices and Proof of Payment to Local Law Testing

Elevator maintenance and testing, including those mandated by local and state codes, come with invoices, receipts, and proof of payment. These documents confirm whether a property owner actually paid for required safety tests like brake inspections, emergency systems checks, or annual certifications. Missing or suspicious payment records may suggest that critical services were skipped—either to save money or due to poor oversight. When these documents don’t align with required testing schedules, it creates a clear narrative of negligence. At Jerez Law, we analyze these records in detail to demonstrate failures in compliance and build a compelling case for damages. 

Understanding Nevada Elevator Laws

Elevators in Nevada are regulated under strict safety codes designed to protect residents, workers, and visitors in both public and private buildings. These laws govern the installation, operation, inspection, and maintenance of all elevator systems. Nevada’s Division of Industrial Relations oversees elevator safety through its Mechanical Compliance Section, which mandates regular inspections and compliance with national safety standards such as those set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). For injury victims, understanding how these regulations apply can be crucial in determining whether negligence or code violations contributed to an elevator accident.

Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) Chapter 455C outlines the state’s requirements for the safe operation of elevators, escalators, and similar conveyances. These rules require that all elevator systems be registered with the state and undergo annual inspections by a state-certified inspector. Any identified hazards must be corrected before the elevator can continue operation. In commercial and high-traffic residential buildings, these regulations are particularly important, as the frequency of use increases the risk of wear, malfunction, or failure.

In addition to state laws, Nevada incorporates industry-wide standards like ASME A17.1, which governs the construction and ongoing safety requirements of elevator equipment. These standards cover everything from door sensors and brake mechanisms to emergency communication systems and lighting. Non-compliance with these provisions may not only violate state law but also serve as clear evidence of negligence in a personal injury lawsuit. In elevator accident claims, demonstrating that an elevator system failed to meet these rigorous standards can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.

Failure to comply with Nevada elevator laws can lead to civil penalties, building code violations, or even criminal liability in extreme cases. More importantly, from a personal injury standpoint, these violations often form the basis of a legal claim. If a property owner or maintenance company cut corners or neglected known issues, they may be held financially responsible for any resulting harm. An experienced elevator accident attorney will know how to leverage these regulatory breaches to pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

Routine Inspections and Maintenance Requirements

Under Nevada law, elevators must undergo periodic inspections by licensed professionals to ensure they are operating safely and efficiently. These inspections are not optional—they are a legal requirement. Elevators must also be properly maintained in between inspections, with documented records of all servicing, repairs, and replacements. Property owners and elevator companies are expected to act promptly when safety issues are identified. If a malfunction is reported and not addressed, or if the building fails inspection but remains in operation, it may constitute a breach of legal duty—opening the door for liability in an injury case.​

Liability for Non-Compliance

When elevator laws are not followed, the consequences can be severe—not just for the individuals involved in accidents, but also for the businesses and property owners responsible for maintaining those systems. Nevada law allows injury victims to hold negligent parties accountable for failing to meet legal safety obligations. This includes missed inspections, falsified maintenance records, expired permits, or using unlicensed contractors. At Jerez Law, we use our deep knowledge of Nevada elevator regulations to investigate every aspect of your case and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.​

How Elevator Law Violations Strengthen Injury Claims

When an elevator accident results in injury, evidence of legal violations can serve as a cornerstone of a strong personal injury claim. Nevada courts consider violations of building codes, safety statutes, and industry standards as potential evidence of negligence. If an elevator fails due to missed inspections, lack of load testing, or inadequate maintenance—each a direct violation of Nevada regulations—this can significantly strengthen a victim’s case. The more egregious the violation, the more likely it is that the court will find liability and award damages. This is why one of the first steps in any elevator injury investigation is obtaining compliance documentation from both property owners and elevator service contractors.

Partnering with an Attorney Familiar with Nevada Code

Given the complexity of Nevada’s elevator laws, it is essential to work with a personal injury attorney who understands the specific mechanical compliance standards in the state. At Jerez Law, we combine knowledge of state statutes with years of hands-on experience representing injury victims across Henderson and Clark County. Our legal team frequently handles cases involving violations of premises liability laws and catastrophic injuries, both of which may apply in elevator-related claims. We utilize expert witnesses, engineering reports, and regulatory records to build a clear, evidence-backed case that holds all negligent parties accountable.

Types of Elevator Accident Cases

Elevator accidents can occur in many different ways, each presenting its own legal challenges and types of injuries. At Jerez Law, we represent victims involved in a wide range of elevator-related incidents—whether they happen in residential complexes, office buildings, casinos, hospitals, or retail spaces across Henderson and Clark County. Understanding the type of accident you or your loved one experienced is crucial for determining liability, gathering evidence, and building a successful personal injury claim.

Mis-Leveling

Mis-leveling occurs when an elevator fails to stop evenly with the floor, creating a tripping hazard for passengers entering or exiting the cab. Even a few inches of unevenness can cause severe falls, especially for the elderly, disabled, or individuals carrying heavy objects. Nevada building codes require precise leveling mechanisms and safety sensors to ensure safe boarding. When these systems malfunction due to wear, poor maintenance, or outdated equipment, the property owner or elevator maintenance provider may be held liable. Mis-leveling is often a symptom of a larger mechanical issue, and when documented properly, it can serve as powerful evidence in a personal injury claim.

Door Entrapment

Door entrapment incidents occur when an elevator’s doors close on a person or object, failing to reopen as required by safety standards. Modern elevators are equipped with sensors that detect movement and prevent the doors from closing on passengers, especially children or those with mobility challenges. If the doors malfunction or the sensors are disabled or faulty, passengers may suffer crushing injuries or even be dragged during operation. Under Nevada’s safety regulations and ASME codes, failure to maintain these door systems constitutes a serious violation. Victims of door entrapment are often entitled to compensation when negligence or mechanical failure is clearly established.

Car Entrapment

Car entrapment involves a passenger becoming stuck inside an elevator due to a mechanical or electrical malfunction. This can occur when the cab stalls between floors, loses power, or experiences control system failure. While some incidents may be resolved quickly, extended entrapments can lead to physical injuries, anxiety attacks, or medical emergencies—especially for those with health conditions. Nevada law requires that elevator systems include functional emergency communication tools and that response protocols are in place. If a property manager or maintenance company fails to respond promptly, or if the entrapment was caused by poor upkeep, the victim may have grounds for legal action.

Sudden Acceleration

Sudden acceleration refers to an elevator car rapidly speeding up without warning, often exceeding safe limits. This can cause passengers to lose balance and fall, resulting in injuries such as broken bones, sprains, or concussions. Acceleration issues are often linked to malfunctioning control systems or worn motor components, which are preventable with regular inspections and load testing. Nevada elevator codes mandate that all elevators operate within regulated speed parameters to protect users from harm. When these standards are ignored, and a passenger is injured as a result, property owners and elevator maintenance companies may be held financially responsible for their negligence.

Sudden Deceleration

Sudden deceleration occurs when an elevator abruptly stops or slows down, causing passengers to jolt forward or be thrown off balance. This malfunction can happen due to control panel failure, brake malfunction, or problems with the drive system. Even when the elevator doesn’t stop completely, the force of an unexpected slowdown can cause significant trauma, particularly to the spine and neck. Nevada law requires all elevator systems to undergo regular functional testing to detect and prevent such issues. A documented history of brake problems or failed inspections can serve as strong evidence in proving negligence during a personal injury claim.

Overspeed Conditions

Overspeed conditions occur when an elevator travels faster than its programmed speed limit, placing occupants at risk of serious harm. This can result from a malfunction in the elevator’s speed governor or a breakdown in its control system. In extreme cases, overspeeding can lead to complete system failure or collisions with the shaft ceiling or pit. Nevada regulations and national elevator codes strictly govern speed limits and require the use of overspeed safety devices. When these safeguards fail or are not properly maintained, the consequences can be life-threatening. Victims of overspeed incidents may pursue claims against negligent owners or service contractors.

Defective Governors

An elevator governor is a crucial safety device that regulates the speed of the cab and activates the emergency brake system if overspeeding occurs. A defective or poorly calibrated governor can fail to engage in time, leading to uncontrolled acceleration or crashes. Routine inspection and testing of governors are required under Nevada’s elevator safety regulations. If a property owner or maintenance company fails to service this vital component, they can be held accountable for injuries caused by their oversight. Defective governors are often cited in technical investigations following an accident and can significantly influence the success of a legal claim.

Improper Hoist Cable Maintenance

Elevators rely on hoist cables to safely move passengers between floors. These steel cables must be regularly inspected for fraying, corrosion, and tension inconsistencies. Improper maintenance of hoist cables can lead to cable slippage, snapping, or erratic elevator movement—all of which pose life-threatening risks. Nevada regulations mandate routine servicing and testing of hoist mechanisms to ensure continued safe operation. If an accident is caused by neglected hoist cables, the elevator maintenance company, building owner, or both may face liability. Documented evidence of poor cable upkeep is a critical component of many elevator accident lawsuits and claims.

Interlock Circuit Bypass

The interlock circuit ensures that elevator doors remain closed while the cab is in motion and that the cab does not operate unless doors are fully secured. Bypassing this circuit—whether deliberately or due to a malfunction—creates a serious safety hazard. Unauthorized bypassing may allow elevators to move with open doors or operate unsafely, leading to fatal falls or severe crush injuries. Nevada elevator codes strictly prohibit any such interference with safety mechanisms. If an investigation finds that the interlock system was disabled or improperly repaired, it can be used as powerful evidence of gross negligence in a personal injury case.

Communication Failure

All elevators are required to have an emergency communication system, allowing passengers to contact building staff or first responders if trapped. When this system fails, victims may be left without assistance for extended periods, resulting in panic, medical issues, or delayed treatment. Communication systems must be tested regularly to ensure they function during emergencies. Nevada law requires operable in-cab phones or intercoms in compliance with state and federal safety standards. A communication breakdown—especially when coupled with entrapment—can significantly compound a property owner’s liability in a legal claim for damages or emotional distress.

Safety Device Failure

Modern elevators are equipped with multiple safety devices, including brakes, buffers, door sensors, speed limiters, and backup power systems. Failure of any of these mechanisms increases the risk of injury or death. Safety device malfunctions often indicate that regular testing and maintenance were not performed in accordance with Nevada elevator laws. When these systems fail and an injury occurs, it reflects a breakdown in the basic duty of care owed to passengers. Establishing that these devices were defective or had not been inspected properly can form the foundation of a successful personal injury lawsuit.

Damages in Elevator Accident Cases

An elevator accident can change a person’s life in an instant—and for residents of Henderson, Nevada, the physical and emotional toll can be especially devastating when these injuries happen in places we trust: apartment complexes, shopping centers, casinos, or even medical facilities. At Jerez Law, we proudly serve the Henderson community by helping accident victims and their families pursue the justice and compensation they need to move forward.

We’ve seen firsthand how a serious elevator malfunction can result in catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain trauma, spinal cord damage, severe burns, crushed limbs, or permanent disfigurement. These are not just legal cases—they are deeply personal stories of pain, struggle, and recovery. In the most tragic situations, we also represent families in pursuing wrongful death claims when elevator failures lead to fatal outcomes. Whether your injuries occurred near Green Valley, in the Water Street District, or inside a high-rise building near Anthem, we’re here to stand by your side. Our goal is to help you recover every penny you’re entitled to under Nevada law—because your story, and your recovery, matter to us and to your Henderson neighbors.

Below are some of the key types of damages we fight to recover on behalf of our clients throughout Henderson and the greater Clark County area.

Future Pain and Suffering

Beyond immediate symptoms, many elevator accident victims continue to suffer for months or even years after the incident. Chronic pain, PTSD, limited mobility, and reduced quality of life are all long-term consequences that deserve recognition under the law. Future pain and suffering can be especially critical for individuals facing permanent disabilities or progressive conditions. At Jerez Law, we work closely with medical professionals and life care planners to project the future impact of your injuries, ensuring any settlement or award accounts for the lasting effects on your health and happiness.

Lost Wages

Time away from work due to injury can place a heavy financial burden on victims and their families. Whether you missed a few days or are unable to return to your previous job altogether, lost income is a recoverable damage in a personal injury claim. We calculate this loss using pay stubs, tax records, and employer testimony to show the full economic impact. If your injuries prevent you from resuming your career, we also pursue damages for diminished earning capacity, helping you recover what you would have earned if the accident had never occurred.

Lost Union Benefits

Many elevator accident victims in Nevada are part of trade unions or skilled labor forces with valuable benefits tied to employment—such as health insurance, pension contributions, and disability coverage. When injuries prevent you from working, those benefits may be reduced or lost entirely. This can result in long-term financial insecurity beyond just lost wages. At Jerez Law, we account for these additional losses, working with union representatives or HR departments to document what benefits you’ve lost due to the accident, so we can seek appropriate compensation in your claim.

Loss of Companionship or Consortium

Severe elevator injuries don’t just affect the victim—they can also profoundly impact family life and personal relationships. In cases where a spouse, partner, or close family member suffers from emotional withdrawal, intimacy loss, or permanent disability, Nevada law allows the uninjured partner to pursue damages for “loss of consortium.” These are non-economic losses that acknowledge how an injury has damaged the emotional bonds and shared experiences that define a relationship. Our team handles these claims with the utmost care, recognizing the deep personal toll these situations can take on entire families.

Why Choose Jerez Law for Your Elevator Accident Case

At Jerez Law, we understand that an elevator accident isn’t just a legal issue—it’s a life-changing event. When you or a loved one is injured in an elevator-related incident, you need more than just a lawyer. You need a team that’s experienced, compassionate, and deeply familiar with Nevada’s safety regulations, building codes, and local liability laws. With over 15 years of personal injury experience in Henderson and the greater Clark County area, we’ve earned a reputation for delivering powerful results and personalized care.

What sets us apart is our meticulous approach to investigation and litigation. We don’t just take your word for it—we dig into maintenance records, inspection reports, security footage, and witness statements to uncover the truth. Our firm works with top industry experts, including engineers and building safety consultants, to identify every point of failure in your case. Whether your accident involved a malfunction, mis-leveling, faulty wiring, or inadequate emergency communication systems, we build your case from the ground up to prove negligence and maximize your compensation.

We also recognize that every case is unique, which is why we tailor our strategy to fit your specific needs. Our legal team takes the time to understand how your injuries have affected your physical health, mental well-being, finances, and family life. We communicate every step of the way and never pressure clients into quick settlements. If trial becomes necessary, we are fully prepared to present a compelling case before a Nevada jury. From wrongful death claims to catastrophic injury cases, Jerez Law is committed to justice—because we live and work in the same Henderson community you do.

Contact Jerez Law to Get Started on Your Elevator Injury Case Today

If you or a loved one has been hurt in an elevator accident in Henderson, don’t wait to protect your future. Every day that goes by increases the risk of losing key evidence that could be vital to your case. At Jerez Law, we’re ready to take immediate action—preserve elevator maintenance records, obtain surveillance footage, and launch a full investigation into what caused your injury.

Elevator accidents are more than just mechanical failures—they’re often the result of negligence. Whether it happened in a casino, apartment complex, hospital, or shopping center, we’ll hold property owners, maintenance companies, or manufacturers accountable. Our mission is simple: to help injured Henderson residents recover physically, emotionally, and financially with strength and dignity.

✅ Free, confidential consultations
✅ No legal fees unless we win your case
✅ Bilingual representation (Se habla español)
✅ Over 15 years of proven elevator injury litigation success in Henderson and Clark County

Hiring the right elevator injury attorney in Henderson can make all the difference. Don’t trust your case to a firm that doesn’t understand the complexities of elevator law or Nevada’s safety codes. At Jerez Law, we combine technical knowledge with fierce legal advocacy to make sure you get the compensation you deserve—not just what the insurance company wants to offer. You only get one shot at justice. Let us help you make it count.

📞 Contact Jerez Law today for a free consultation and find out how we can help you take the first step toward recovery.
💻 Visit our Personal Injury Legal Resource Center for more information about how Nevada law protects injury victims like you.