Electricity powers our modern world, but it also poses significant dangers. Electrocution and electric shock accidents can cause devastating injuries, including burns, nerve damage, cardiac arrest, and even death. At KAASS Law, we understand the profound impact these accidents can have on individuals and their families. We commit to helping victims of electrocution and electric shock accidents seek justice and obtain the compensation they deserve. The following will explore the causes and consequences of these accidents, highlighting your legal rights and how we can help you navigate the complex legal process.
How Does It Happen?
Electric shock injury happens when a person’s body becomes part of an electric circuit, the electricity flows between parts of the body or through the body to the ground.
Symptoms of an electric shock injury depend on the current’s frequency, the path through the body, the amount of current flowing through the body, and the length of time the body remains in the circuit.
Injuries Caused by Electrocution and Electric Shock
Injuries resulting from electrocution and electrical shocks include the following:
- Cardiac arrest on a person’s heart from the effect of electricity
- Burns
- Nerves and tissue damage from electrical currents
- Spinal cord injuries
- Peripheral nerve damage
- Amnesia
- Respiratory arrest and other breathing problems.
- Kidney damage
- Muscle injuries
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
- Seizures
Workplace Electrocution Accidents
Electric shock and electrocution accidents often occur in the workplace. Most electrical accidents result from unsafe equipment or installation, unsafe work practices, or an unsafe environment.
Here is the list of workplaces in the United States with the highest rates of electrical accidents and electrocution rates:
- Construction workers
- Mining industry
- Firefighters
- Utility workers
- Electricians
- Medical workers
- Roofers
Workers Compensation for Electric Shock Accidents
When an electric shock and electrocution accidents injury happens in the workplace, the claim is usually covers workers’ compensation, which provides lost income payments and medical care to the injured persons. Mostly work injuries in the workplace don’t need to prove the employer’s fault to get workers’ compensation.
Electrocution and Electric Shock Accident as a Result of the Negligence
Usually, electric shock accident claims are based on negligence and to recover damages after an accident, the plaintiff must be able to establish the following elements:
- Defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff
- Defendant breached the duty of care through negligence
- Defendant’s negligent action was a substantial factor in causing the harm or death to the plaintiff
Premises Liability
When an electrical shock happens on another person’s property, the property owner can be liable for dangerous conditions which existed on that property.
In a premises liability personal injury lawsuit, the plaintiff must be able to prove the following elements:
- Defendant owned, controlled or occupied the property;
- Defendant was negligent in the use or maintenance of the property
- Plaintiff was harmed as a result of the defendant’s negligence
Who is Liable?
Determining liability in electrocution and electric shock accidents can be complex. Potential liable parties may include:
- Property owners: Property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises and ensure that electrical systems are properly installed and maintained.
- Contractors and electricians: Contractors and electricians who perform electrical work may be liable for injuries caused by faulty wiring or negligent installation.
- Manufacturers of electrical equipment: Manufacturers of defective electrical appliances or equipment may be liable for injuries caused by their products.
- Employers: Employers have a duty to provide a safe work environment for their employees, including protecting them from electrical hazards
Recovering Damages Caused by an Electric Shock Accident
Damages a person may be entitled to for an electrocution injury are the following:
- Hospital bills
- Physical therapy
- Costs for specialized burn care
- Pain and Suffering
- Emotional distress
- Damages for lost earnings and lost earning capacity
- Damages for loss of enjoyment of life
- Damages for lost property
KAASS Law: Fighting for Justice in Electrocution and Electric Shock Cases
At KAASS Law, we have a proven track record of success in representing victims of electrocution and electric shock accidents. We can help you:
- Investigate the accident: We’ll thoroughly investigate the accident to determine the cause and identify all liable parties.
- Gather evidence: We’ll collect and preserve evidence to support your claim, including medical records, expert testimony, and witness statements.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: We’ll negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- File a lawsuit: If necessary, we’ll file a lawsuit and pursue your case in court to obtain the maximum compensation you deserve.
Don’t Face This Alone
Electrocution and electric shock accidents can have devastating consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, don’t hesitate to contact KAASS Law. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the justice you deserve.
For a free consultation with experienced lawyers from KAASS LAW with proven results, call us at (310) 943-1171.