What is Electrocution?
Electrocution occurs when an individual is exposed to a high voltage electrical current. The effects of this shock can range from relatively minor wounds to death. Factors that contribute to the severity of electrocution include the following:
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Type of circuit and current;
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The path the electricity took through the body;
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The length of time you were in contact with the current; and
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Strength of the current.
What Are the Symptoms of Electrocution?
The nature and severity of the symptoms and physical reactions that an electrocution victim suffers can vary widely, and may include the following:
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Electrocution can cause damage to several important systems in the body, including the respiratory system, cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system, and the nervous systems. Burns from electrocutions can also result in substantial and often permanent damage to the skin and soft tissue, often requiring extensive surgeries and other painful procedures.
No matter what type of symptoms you have, it is always important to seek medical attention immediately following an electrocution or electric shock. You may have internal injuries or damage that is not readily apparent without the appropriate tests performed by a medical professional.
What Are the Common Causes of Electrocution?
Electrocution can occur in the home, in the workplace, or on another party's property. Some of the common ways electrocution occurs include:
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Faulty wiring;
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Defective appliances or outlets;
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Contact with exposed electrical sources;
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Contact with a fallen power line; and
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Malfunctioning handheld electrical appliances such as hair dryers.
Who Can be Held Liable for My Electrocution-Related Losses?
Electrocution can result in extensive and costly losses for victims including lost income, medical expenses, physical pain and suffering, emotional injuries and more. Fortunately, many electrocution victims have the right to recover for their losses from the responsible party.
In order to prevail in an electrocution claim, you must prove that another party acted negligently in some way. Moreover, several different parties may be negligent in such cases, including:
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Manufacturers — If your electrocution occurred because of a defective product or because a company did not provide adequate warnings regarding the dangers of a product, the manufacturers may be found negligent;
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Employers — If you suffered an electrocution on a construction site or other type of workplace because of a dangerous condition or hazard, you may be able to hold your employer liable for your losses or seek recovery through the workers' compensation system; and
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Property Owners — If you suffer electrocution because a property or business owner allowed a hazard to exist on their property, that owner should be held responsible for your losses.
Should I Consult with a Green Bay or Appleton Personal Injury Attorney?
If you have been electrocuted and believe another party was at fault, please contact [[title]] as soon as possible to discuss a possible case with a skilled Appleton personal injury attorney or Green Bay personal injury attorney. We have offices in Appleton, Green Bay, Oshkosh, and Appleton. Call 920-739-7366 today to schedule your free consultation.