Electrical Shock

The Maine electrical shock attorneys of Peter Thompson & Associates are renowned and respected for their expertise in personal injury law. We have successfully handled numerous cases involving construction accidents and injuries caused by electrical shock. Our firm has recovered seven-figure verdicts and settlements for injured victims throughout Maine.

Construction workers and others using electric tools are vulnerable to electrocution. Electric shock and other injuries occur when the human body becomes part of a closed “circuit.” The shock is caused by contact with wires of an energized circuit and the ground. Because electricity travels through the metallic parts of electrical tools and machines, the person in contact with the current can suffer severe electrical shock and burns. To prevent this type of injury, all electrical tools come with a grounding conductor, a low-resistance wire between the metallic case of the tool and the ground. This ushers the current away from the body into the ground. But improper installation of the conductor, removal of the ground pin, and lack of insulation around the wiring can all cause the metallic parts of the tool to “energize,” exposing the body to electric shock.

Electrical shocks and injuries are generally caused by problems involving:

• Improper use of equipment
• Wire strippers, blowtorches
• Power tools, extension cords
• Drills, chainsaws, belt sanders
• Lack of ground-fault protection
• Missing or severed path to ground
• Accidental contact with power lines

Electrical currents can have different effects on the body, depending on the amount of current and the length of contact between the body and the circuit. Electrical shocks result in a variety of injuries, ranging from a disturbing tingling sensation to third-degree burns. More serious than “flash burns” or thermal contact burns, electrical burns can cause permanent internal injuries. Involuntary muscle contractions caused by the shock can damage muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even bone. On construction sites, the contact with the current can cause workers to fall from ladders, scaffolds, or strike other objects. Electrical shocks can also seriously injure internal organs, including causing internal bleeding and permanent damage to tissues and nerves. Left untreated, these injuries can result in death.

Electrical shocks are preventable accidents caused by negligence. OSHA regulations prohibit work near any part of an electrical power circuit unless protected. Employers and contractors have a duty to provide the appropriate protective equipment, including hats, goggles, gloves, and boots. They must also inspect the equipment to ensure there is adequate ground-fault protection and insulation around the wires. Any defective equipment should be removed from the premises or placed out of reach. The parties responsible for the jobsite are legally liable when their negligence results in injury to another. Manufacturers and vendors of defective equipment are also liable when the product causes harm to the user. Victims injured by electrical shocks and burns are entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. If the electrical shock or injury resulted in the wrongful death of a loved one, surviving family members may also recover damages associated with the loss of relationship with the deceased.

If you were injured in a construction accident, the experienced Maine electrical shock lawyers of Peter Thompson & Associates can help. We have extensive knowledge of the injuries caused by mechanical failures in power tools and electrically-operated machines. Our seasoned attorneys and highly-trained staff ensure that all negligent parties are held liable for your loss. For years, we have provided stellar legal representation to injured victims and their families throughout Maine, helping them achieve the best outcome possible in their case. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we know that electrical shocks and other construction accidents cause serious harm. That is why we are dedicated to helping you recover, and fighting for the legal compensation you deserve. Call 800.804.2004 for a free consultation or contact us online.