When selecting an elevator expert witness, the majority of people agree that it is vital to choose the right one from the onset. To start with, the expert witness should have hands-on experience in installing, maintaining, trouble-shooting, adjusting and repairing a wide range of elevator types. Additionally, he should have had experience in supervising and assisting the other technicians in their areas of expertise, in particular in trouble-shooting the tricky field tight spots.
Furthermore, a complete working knowledge of a variety of other safety regulations and codes applicable to elevator’s transportation systems is necessary in order to qualify as an elevator witness expert. In addition, a thorough and full understanding of the ASME A17.1 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, which should be evidenced by a Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI) certification given out by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, is crucial for anyone to be given a consideration.
Last but not least, some specialized experience in the field of elevator and escalator accident investigations is a prerequisite to qualifying as an elevator expert witness. The tremendously valuable technical knowledge gained through the investigative process in cases of elevator accidents is quite important, as it can’t be achieved through other means.
