Electrocutions are one of the most common accidents on construction sites, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In 2018, electrocutions accounted for 8.5% of all construction site accidents.
Construction job sites can be teeming with workers from multiple companies and third-party contractors. An employer may not always be responsible for your accident and you could potentially recover compensation above and beyond workers’ compensation by taking legal action against a liable third party.
Not only construction workers can suffer from electric shocks. Workers in several other occupations are routinely exposed to high voltage environments, including:
- Sign technicians
- Tree trimmers
- Electrical company workers
- Telecommunication workers
If you have been injured by an electric shock at work, consulting with one of our team members can help you understand any legal options open to you. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm now for a free consultation: (800) 529-9122.
Symptoms of an Electric Shock
A high voltage electric shock on a job site, for example from a power line, can be fatal. Electric current may cause internal and external tissue and organ damage to the human body. Some signs and injuries of someone having been electrocuted can be:
- Loss of consciousness
- Breathing problems
- Problems with hearing and/or eyesight
- Cardiac arrest
- Muscle and nerve destruction
- Burns
A worker may also suffer from secondary injuries due to an electric shock, for example through any subsequent falls. In this way, getting electrocuted can potentially lead to injuries such as fractures, head injuries, back and spine injuries, and paralysis.
According to Healthline, those who survive electrical shocks usually require extensive medical intervention. The long-term effects of an electrical injury to the body can include neurological, psychological, and physical symptoms.
The CFP further states that any effects from electrocution may be five or more years delayed, presenting a problem not only to the sufferer but also medical professionals who may not always recognize any later health problems as stemming from the electrocution accident.
The delayed onset of injuries can present a unique problem for those dependent on insurance pay-outs. Immediately after an accident neither you nor your doctors may know of all the medical costs the future could bring. Insurances may not calculate your damages in your best interests but theirs. Therefore, it can be essential to get legal advice from a Los Angeles electric shock lawyer who may be able to help you get compensation for any future medical treatments related to your electric shock injuries.
Electric Shock Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Lawsuits
If you have suffered injuries through an electric shock on your work site, you might have the option of filing a personal injury lawsuit against a liable third party. If your loved one died due to an electrocution at work, you could file a wrongful death lawsuit and receive compensation and benefits. Some of the compensation that may be available to you in a personal injury or wrongful death case, depending on your unique circumstances:
- Medical bills and treatment, including rehabilitation.
- Future medical costs.
- Lost income during recovery.
- Future lost income and lost earning potential.
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of life-quality.
- Funeral expenses.
- Loss of guardianship for children.
- Loss of companionship.
There can be many other compensatory awards available for plaintiffs. You could also receive punitive damages if a third-party defendant acted in a particularly egregious and reckless way in causing injury or death.
A good first step can be contacting a member of the Pintas & Mullins team for information and advice. A lawsuit can be your best option even if you have a workers’ compensation claim, as these usually do not compensate you for a number of non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
We can advise you on your legal options and next best steps. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today to speak to one of our team members about your case.
For a free legal consultation with a Electric Shock Lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (800) 529-9122
Proving Responsibility and Negligence
In general, in a personal injury or wrongful death case, you will have to prove liability of the negligent third party that caused the accident and injuries or death. Your injuries can be due to negligence, a defective product, or reckless behavior. Every case has its unique challenges and requires a different approach.
In electric shock accidents, establishing who is liable is not always straightforward. There may be one or several third-party defendants who could potentially be liable for your damages. The liable third party will probably fight tooth and nail to deny your claim. Having a Los Angeles electric shock lawyer on your side can be helpful. A lawyer can help to prove your case.
While you are recovering from your injuries, we can start work on building your case. Your Los Angeles electric shock lawyer can gather the evidence and documentation needed, such as insurance policies, medical reports, and medical expenses. We can investigate your accident in detail and scan any reports available, or review camera footage of the work area. We can also negotiate with insurance companies, if needed. When a case comes to court, we can represent you and fight for your rights.
Los Angeles Electric Shock Lawyer Near Me (800) 529-9122
Pintas & Mullins Law Firm Can Fight for Your Rights
It can be a difficult decision whether to initiate a lawsuit, particularly if you receive a workers’ compensation claim. However, the insurances typically do not work in your best interests and in order to protect yourself and your family from future costs and liabilities, a lawsuit against a liable third party can help your family immensely.
We aim to find the best possible solution and outcome for our clients and want to ensure that they do not end up with future costs due to an injury that was no fault of their own. We are not afraid of tackling tough cases and can fight for you in court.
There will be no out-of-pocket costs for you as we get paid if we win your case.
Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm now and find out how we could help you get what you deserve: (800) 529-9122.
Call or text (800) 529-9122 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form