The first steps matter because records and footage don’t last forever.
Do this right away (if you can):
- Get medical care promptly and tell providers exactly what happened (including how the unit behaved).
- Request the incident report number from building staff or security.
- Write down a timeline while it’s fresh: time of day, what you were doing, how the escalator/elevator acted, and whether you saw warning signage.
- Identify witnesses—employees or other riders who may have been nearby.
- Preserve evidence: photos of the area, your injuries, and any visible defects (only if safe).
Important: Contact with insurance can feel like the “next step,” but early statements can be used to minimize injuries. A lawyer can help you communicate strategically while you focus on recovery.


