Woman Killed by Homemade Residential Elevator
Authorities are still investigating why a 66-year-old woman was crushed to death by a homemade elevator that was located outside a three-story home in Weeki Wachi.
The husband of a wheelchair-bound woman built the elevator 17 years ago when the house was constructed. According to WTSP News, the husband had built the elevator from a forklift, wood and welded metal to help his wife get around the residence.
The victim reportedly had come to the home to visit the woman, who was alone at the time, when the tragic accident occurred. The wheelchair-bound woman had sent the elevator down to the first floor in anticipation of her friend’s visit, but became concerned when she hadn’t shown up.
She called the boyfriend of the victim and he came to the home. He discovered his girlfriend crushed beneath the elevator. She was declared dead at the scene.
Investigators are still baffled as to why it happened. It appears that the lift had been working normally and there was no indication that the victim had suffered a medical emergency prior to the accident.
Remarkably, Florida premises law does not require that lifts in private homes be inspected or certified. However, it was reported the husband hadn’t procured an electrical permit and the elevator allegedly didn’t have any of the required safety switches.
Authorities have since shut down the elevator.
The premises liability attorneys at Farah & Farah in Jacksonville offers condolences to the family of the woman killed in this senseless tragedy. It is a property owner’s responsibility to keep a property in safe condition for residents and visitors. Our law firm has the resources to conduct an independent investigation into your case to see that those who may be responsible for an injury or death are held liable for their actions.
We are here to answer your questions. Call us at (800) 533-3555 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us evaluate your case today.
