Wakefield, MA Lawyer for Injuries Caused by Electrocution at Work
Electrocution is among the most lethal kinds of accidents that can occur on a construction site. Often, these types of construction accidents could stem from the fault of contractors, employers, subcontractors, or other property or companies. If negligence is involved, a Wakefield electrical shock lawyer could pursue the liable parties to pay compensation to the injured individual.
A seasoned Wakefield electrocution accident attorney experienced in advocating for individuals who are injured or killed in electrical shock accidents could provide the appropriate representation needed to hold the negligent parties accountable. to get started on a case, schedule a free consultation today at (617) 925-6407.
Common Electrical Injuries in Wakefield, MA
During an electrical shock, an electric current passes through the body of an individual. When this occurs, a person is exposed to dangerously high amounts of voltage. Victims could suffer extensive injuries if the shock was caused by the negligence of another or if they were not prepared with the correct gear for handling electrical jobs. Common injuries and symptoms may include:
- Death
- Stroke
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Muscle damage
- Spinal cord and nerve damage injuries
- Paralysis
- Thermal burns
Some of the more serious injuries stemming from electrical contact could affect the individual’s nerve, muscle, and skin tissues. The skin could also be easily burned when it comes into contact with electricity. There are also numerous factors that determine the degree of injury from electrical shock and burns, including the current, the path the current takes through the body, and the voltage involved.
Electrocution Shock Classifications
Electric shock accidents can be categorized into two classifications:
- Direct current shocks
- Alternating current shocks
Direct current shocks could make the individual’s muscles contract involuntarily, rendering it impossible for them to unclench their fists or let go of the object transferring the electricity. on the other hand, alternating current shocks could result in severe damage to an individual’s internal organs.
Compensation Available in Wakefield Electrical Shock Accident Claims
Contractors and sub-contractors are obligated to adhere to stringent federal and state guidelines and to offer a reasonably safe work environment to construction workers. Examples of contractors may include:
- Electricians
- Laborers
- Crane operators
- Ironworkers
- Sheet metal workers
- Welders
- Heavy equipment operators
Workers could suffer electrical shocks if proper precautions are not taken and they contact power lines, live wires, electrical appliances and machinery, or circuit breakers. If the individual survives, they could be left requiring long-term care while unable to work, causing financial hardship to loved ones if they depend on the person’s income for support.
Worker’s compensation could pay for some of these injuries, but would not provide sufficient compensation for the long-term physical disability or emotional trauma. a Wakefield attorney could advise the electrical shock victim regarding their rights to file a negligence claim. The individual could be entitled to damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, past and future lost income, and additional types of compensation.
Third-Party Claims in Wakefield Electrocution Injury Cases
While worker’s compensation claims do not require the plaintiff to prove employer negligence, claims against third parties are founded on the legal theory of negligence. The plaintiff would be required to establish that the responsible individual or entity owed them a duty of care, that they breached that duty, and the breach directly caused the plaintiff injury.
A Wakefield electrical shock lawyer could handle all aspects of the victim’s third-party claim, including identifying all possible defendants, conducting thorough research, consulting with experts, obtaining medical records, and other investigation. Massachusetts law requires electrical shock victims who wish to pursue a lawsuit for damages to do so within three years from the date of the accident. Failure to initiate a claim with the state’s civil courts by the statutory deadline could cause the court to dismiss a person’s case altogether.
Contact an Experienced Wakefield Electrocution + Shock Accident Attorney
When you are injured or you lose someone you love in an electrocution accident, it is crucial to hire an accomplished Boston electrical shock lawyer who could handle your case. Following a construction accident, it is vital to start an immediate investigation and preserve available evidence. Call the office today or use the contact form online to schedule a case evaluation with a skilled Wakefield personal injury attorney at (617) 925-6407.