Electrocution and contact with live electrical wires can cause serious injuries and even death. Electrocution occurs when the human body comes in contact with a powerful electric shock. Electrocution accidents are often the result of negligence regardless of how they occurred.
Common Causes of Electrocution Accidents
Electrocution accidents occur most frequently in the workplace. In fact, electrocution is considered one of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) “fatal four” causes of death in the workplace. Electrocution accidents can also occur in the home or at a business. There are a number of different causes of electrocution accidents including:
- Defective manufacturing or construction equipment
- Defective power tools
- Defective household appliances
- Exposed wiring
- Lack of proper insulation on exposed wires
- Unsafe installation of manufacturing or construction equipment
- Inadequate guarding around exposed wires on equipment
- Faulty wiring
- Defective extension cords
- Defective electrical outlets
- Faulty wiring in pools and hot tubs
- Contact with high voltage powerlines
- Inadequate safety practices
- Improper signage marking high voltage areas
- Poor lighting on construction sites
- Contact with downed power lines after a car accident
Injuries Resulting from Electrocution Accidents
When electrocution occurs, electrical energy flows through the body. This exposure to electrical energy can result in devastating injuries and even death. A number of variables determine the impact electrocution can have on the body including the voltage and the type of current the body is exposed to.
Burns are the most common injury resulting from an electrocution accident. Some of these burns can be severe, especially at the point of contact, and cause permanent scarring. Electrical burns can damage the skin, organs, and respiratory system and can require extensive, painful treatment. If an electrocution accident has caused someone to be thrown through the air, serious injuries such as fractures and traumatic brain injury can result. Electrocutions can also cause forced contraction of the muscles which can lead to fractures and spinal cord injuries. An individual may even experience cardiac arrest which could lead to death.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured or has died as the result of an electrocution accident, you should have your case evaluated by an experienced personal injury attorney. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have over 50 years of experience helping injured New Yorkers. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MEDLAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits are available. Se habla español.