Legal•Info

Construction Accidents And Electrocution

There are a number of different construction accidents that could occur during the course of a worker's day. Because of the nature of the job, there are a number of different situations where workers could find their safety threatened. Due to this, many construction companies invest a lot of time and money into training their workers in on-site safety techniques that will allow them to reduce the risk of an accident happening to them.

How Can Electrocution Occur?
Electrocution typically occurs when workers are exposed to live wires or electricity in the course of repair work or building. There are many stages during the construction of a building where a worker might be called upon to handle devices that have active currents running through them. Oftentimes, accidental contact with overhead wires or transformers in the area by trucks or equipment leads to worker electrocution, instead of direct contact between a worker and a wire. Ensure that these accidents don't happen by having power lines insulated or shut off before beginning work.

Companies have an obligation to make sure you work in a safe environment, by maintaining safe, secure power lines and giving you the right safety equipment to complete the job.

What Are the Consequences of Electrocution?
Depending on the severity and location of the shock, the consequences can be deadly. Electrocution can affect the whole body, causing falls, burns, and brain injury. Direct contact with the skin can lead to deep burns or internal burns, depending on the voltage of the current. Injuries can range from minor to permanently debilitating, rendering you unable to work for long periods of time or keep you from working again at all.

What Should I Do If I Get Electrocuted?
If the accident takes place on the job-site, you may be entitled to workers' compensation. And because the recovery process might take a long time, get in touch with a lawyer as soon as your condition stabilizes. It's entirely possible that your accident was completely preventable, and you are entitled to compensation for your injuries, including medical costs, lost wages, and other associated expenses you might have to deal with. If your employer, or a third-party supplier or landowner, they might be liable for damages. You and your co-workers deserve accountability from your employer, if nothing else than to ensure that conditions will improve to prevent future accidents.

How Do I Choose the Right Lawyer?
The main thing to look for in an attorney is experience. Make sure you're consulting with someone who knows the workers' compensation laws in your state, and has experience dealing with injuries similar to yours. The right attorney can make the difference between winning a case and losing a case; give yourself the best shot.

What if I Can't Afford an Attorney?
Most personal injury attorneys work on contingency; they don't get paid unless you win your case. Since the attorney only collects if they win, you can be sure they will put their full resources toward getting a judgment in your favor.

What About My Family?
If you have lost a loved one due to a construction accident, you are entitled to damages. Obviously this won't make up for your loss, but it can help you get by in their absence.

When Do I Have to File Suit By?
Depending on what state you live in, the statute of limitations will determine how long you have. Consult with an attorney many offer free first consultations to find out if you have a case, and when the deadline for your suit might be.