I thank you all for the comments, but is there a guide or reference to troubleshoot some common elevator problems? I'm really new to this thing.
The replies given by all these professionals were excellent answers to your question. Sounds like you need a reputable elevator company to send a licensed elevator man to take a look at this thing.
Did anyone seek medical attention? Not sure about residential elevators but if there is an alleged injury on a commercial elevator, it should be locked and tagged for a State Elevator Inspector to inspect before it is moved, worked on, or (in worst case) put back in service. He will try and determine if the negligence was on the part of the people riding (highest probably in this case), the elevator malfunctioning, the building owner and/or the elevator maintenance company - if there is one.
