Construction Accidents and Electrocution
Worksite accidents are not uncommon, but few industries have more accidents and workplace injuries than the field of construction. Among the many types of accidents that can take place on a construction site, electrocutions are one of the most dangerous. Electrocutions are classified as a “fatal four” accident, because they are a leading cause of death among construction workers.
Electrocution accidents are likely to cause catastrophic injuries and other devastating losses. Individuals in the Houston, TX, area who are injured in an electrocution accident can work with construction accident attorney Michael E. Shelton to determine accident liability and pursue compensation for resulting losses.
Causes of Electrocution Accidents
Construction sites often have numerous sources of electricity, all of which pose a serious workplace hazard. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has standards in place that are meant to protect workers from electrocution, electric shock, fires, and explosions. Unfortunately, standards and guidelines are not always followed, and accidents can occur as a result. According to OSHA, the most common causes of electrical injuries are:
- Contact with power lines
- Lack of ground-fault protection
- Missing or discontinuous path to ground-fault
- Misuse of electrical equipment
- Improper use of extension or flexible cords
Electrocution Accident Injuries
The type and degree of electrocution accident injuries largely depends on how long a person is in contact with electricity, and the amount of voltage involved. Exposure to 500 volts of electricity or more can be fatal. Lower volts of electricity can result in injuries such as:
- Burns
- Cardiac arrest
- Organ damage
- Brain damage
Electrocution accidents can also lead to second-hand injuries. For instance, if someone is working on scaffolding when they are exposed to electricity, they may fall from where they are working. A fall can lead to additional injuries like broken bones or a head, neck, or spinal cord injury.
What Should I Do if I’m Injured in an Electrocution Accident?
The first thing to do after an electrocution accident is seek immediate medical attention. Most electrocutions cause catastrophic injuries, but even if there are no obvious signs of damage, there may be internal injuries that require attention. After appropriate medical attention has been provided, workers should file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation should provide compensation for the majority of electrocution damages, including medical expenses and lost wages.
After filing a workers’ compensation claim, injury victims should seek the advice of an electrical accident attorney. Liability for electrocution accidents is often not clear-cut. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, there are several third-parties that could be held at least partially liable for accident damages.
For example, liability may fall on a utility corporation, a property owner, or a third-party contractor. Michael E. Shelton examines the details of an electrical accident so that his Houston clients can pursue maximum compensation for the full extent of accident damages, including pain and suffering, which is not provided by workers’ compensation.
Contact Michael E. Shelton
If you or a loved one has been injured in an electrocution accident, attorney Michael E. Shelton can help you explore your right to financial compensation. To discuss the details of your accident with our legal team, send us a message online, or call our Houston law firm at (713) 807-0700.
