What to Do If You Are the Victim of an Electric Shock from a Down Powerline

Reynolds and Reynolds Law Firm

In the United States, handling damaged or frayed wires, touching sensitive electrical outlets, or water penetrating electrical appliances contribute to more than 1,000 electric shock fatalities each year. In almost all cases, an electric shock occurs when an individual comes into contact with an energy source strong enough to send a charged current through their body, muscles, or hair.

 

Human bodies are primarily composed of water, which means they are active conductors of electricity. Consequently, symptoms and injuries of an electric shock depends on the power and severity of the energy transfer. Cardiac arrest, muscle and nerve damage, burns, or even death are all possible results of an electric shock.

 

Downed or exposed power lines constitute the most frequent cause of electric shock in the US. In the event of a natural disaster or unforeseeable accident, downed power lines fall under the care and responsibility of electrical companies and property owners. Employers are bound by law to provide their employees with a safe working environment, free of inherent risks and dangerous hazards. If an employer fails to resolve the issue or follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines, they can be liable for injuries sustained at work. They are fully responsible for preserving the safety of their employees.

 

In the case that a high voltage line falls to the ground, it often creates a powerful circle of current, flowing out from the tip of the downed line. Behave with extreme caution, especially if the earth is wet or if the voltage from the line contacts water. The safest action is always to call 911 or activate the emergency response system in your area. Ideally, an electric company will be notified and soon after shut the power off.

 

If you or someone you love has fallen victim of an electric shock, please contact our highly skilled and experienced personal injury attorneys. With years of experience and success handling personal injury lawsuits, we will concentrate our best efforts in identifying all parties, responsible for causing injury. You may be able to recover compensation for your pain and suffering, in addition to medical expenses and lost wages. Speak directly with an attorney at REYNOLDS & REYNOLDS in Frisco, TX to recover justice today.