As Georgia injury lawyers, we have seen a number of electrocution cases over the years. Some of the electrocutions result in serious injury and many result in death. Electrocution injury can cause many problems which include, tingling, pain, tetany, palpitations, chest pain, respiratory arrest, amnesia, seizures, altered mental state, coma, blistering and wounds. This week we had occasion to investigate the electrocution of a client who is a lineman for an electric utility company. He was seriously injured when he came into contact with a “hot” wire while climbing a pole. Fortunately, he survived; however, he has been seriously and permanently injured. In his case he not only sustained serious burns, but the incident resulted in the amputation of a leg. When electricity passes from any source and into the body it can result in damage including burns. The amount of damage is determined by the strength of the current and the length of exposure. Death from electric currents passing through the body can result from fatal effects on the heart, severe external and/or internal burns or from other organ damage.
Many electrocution cases result from work-related accidents in which case the victim would have a workers compensation claim. Unfortunately, the benefits available under most workers compensation laws are woefully inadequate to compensate an injured person for all of his or her damages. Accordingly, it is important to investigate the circumstances of the incident thoroughly to determine whether the electrocution was caused by the negligence of a third-party.
The Georgia injury lawyers at Finch McCranie, LLP have, over our 45 years, represented victims of electrocution or their families when the accident result in wrongful death. We have a proven track record of success. If you or a loved one are injured or suffer a wrongful death as a result of an electrocution, you may have a legal claim against the manufacturer of a product or a negligent third-party. Call us for a free consultation at 800 228-9159.
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