Electrocution Accident Lawyer in Virginia
Fighting For Electrocution Accident Victims in Virginia
On almost every construction site, there are many electronically powered tools used by multiple employees. Whether a person is working on a crane, using power tools, or installing wiring in a building, electrocutions can happen at any given moment if employees are not safe and employers do not enforce safe work habits.
According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) of the United States Department of Labor, electrocutions are amongst the top four most common types of construction accidents.
Call The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC today at (571) 290-2390 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our electrocution accident attorney in Virginia.
Common Causes of Electrocutions at Construction Sites
Common causes may include:
- Ungrounded wires
- Defective equipment
- Inadequate tools
- Improperly marked construction areas
- Poor lighting in construction zones
Different Types of Electrical Injuries
Electrocutions can cause a wide range of injuries, depending on the strength of the tool or machine that caused the injury. OSHA reports there are four types of electrical injuries caused by electrocutions, which are listed below:
- Burns (may result in severe blistering)
- Electric shock
- Falls caused by the shock
- Fatal electrocution
In addition, electrocutions can cause injury to a person’s skin as well as the internal organs. In the most severe cases, electrocutions can result in death if proper medical care is not administered right away.
The Impact of Electric Shock
The effects can range from mild to fatal depending on factors like voltage, current type (AC vs. DC), duration of contact, and the path the electricity takes through the body. Here’s a breakdown of the short- and long-term effects:
Short-term effects include:
- Burns
- Arrhythmias
- Cardiac arrest
- Respiratory issues
- Muscle and nerve damage
- Loss of consciousness
- Secondary trauma
Long-term effects include:
- Chronic pain and neuropathy
- Muscle damage and atrophy
- Cardiovascular problems
- Neurological and cognitive Issues
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Organ damage
- Psychological effects
What Damages Could Be Recovered in an Electrocution Accident Claim?
Recoverable damages often include:
Economic Damages
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work because of the accident.
- Future Earnings: Reimbursement for diminished earning capacity if injuries prevent a victim from returning to their previous occupation.
- Property Damage: Compensation for damaged belongings in cases involving defective equipment or appliances.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Disfigurement: Damages for permanent scars or disfigurement resulting from burns or other injuries.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the effect on relationships with loved ones.
Punitive Damages
In instances involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, courts could grant punitive damages to penalize the at-fault party and prevent similar behavior.
Electric Shock and Electrocution Claims FAQs
What is the difference between electric shock and electrocution?
An electric shock occurs when electrical current passes through the body and can result in injury. Electrocution refers to a fatal electric shock.
Who can be held liable for an electric shock or electrocution accident?
Liability may fall on property owners, employers, contractors, equipment manufacturers, or utility companies, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Can I file a lawsuit if a family member died due to electrocution?
Yes. Surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
Do I need to prove negligence in these cases?
Yes. You must show that a party owed a duty of care, breached that duty (e.g., failed to follow safety protocols), and caused your injury or your loved one's death as a result.
What if the accident happened at work?
If the incident occurred on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. However, if a third party (e.g., a contractor or equipment manufacturer) was involved, you may also be able to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
How long do I have to file an electric shock or electrocution claim?
Deadlines vary by state, but personal injury and wrongful death claims typically have a statute of limitations ranging from 1 to 3 years from the date of the incident.
Can children or bystanders bring a claim?
Yes. Anyone injured due to another party’s negligence—whether on public or private property—may be eligible to file a claim.
How can an attorney help with my case?
Our team can investigate the incident, determine liability, gather evidence (e.g., safety reports, witness statements), negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if needed.
Contact Our Electrocution Accident Attorney in Virginia Today
If you have sustained injuries in the workplace, we encourage you to get in touch with a Virginia construction accident lawyer at The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC immediately. We can investigate your case and determine who should be held responsible for your damages. No matter what your case may be, we can treat your case as if it were our own. In addition, we may be able to pursue maximum compensation to provide help for any medical expenses, lost wages, or emotional damages you may have suffered as a result of your injury.
Contact The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC today to get started with our Virginia electrocution accident lawyer.
