Electric Shock Accident Compensation Claims

Electrical Accidents at Work

Electricity is an intrinsic and important part of our daily lives but if care is not taken it can be the cause of serious and sometimes fatal accidents. The risks of being involved in an electrical accident can increase at work, particularly if the correct health and safety procedures are not followed and implemented.

Electric shock accidents can happen in a variety of ways, but in the context of a workplace, they are often the result of poorly maintained electrical equipment, improper usage of electrical devices, or lack of adequate safety protocols and training. They can also occur in environments where there is a mixture of electricity and water, or in cases of direct contact with overhead power lines or underground cables.

Unlike other types of workplace accidents, the effects of an electric shock can often be invisible and delayed. On the surface, a victim may seem unharmed immediately after the incident, only for serious complications to develop later on. These could range from internal burns to cardiac issues, neurological damage, or even psychological trauma.

Understanding the unique nature of these accidents, along with the broad range of injuries they can cause, is essential in building a strong compensation claim. It is vital that medical attention is sought immediately after an accident, even if no symptoms are apparent. In addition to ensuring the safety and comfort of the injured person, medical records will form a critical part of any compensation claim, providing evidence of the nature and extent of the injuries suffered.

The most common claims we see caused by electrical injury in the workplace include:

Electric Shock Claims

Exposure to a live electrical current, whether direct or indirect, has the potential to inflict severe harm. The spectrum of harm spans from mild discomfort to critical health emergencies. This exposure can trigger catastrophic consequences such as heart failure, respiratory collapse, and other serious medical complications.

The variety of symptoms that can emerge as a result of an electric shock is broad and diverse. In mild cases, victims may experience a slight, tingling sensation, akin to minor pins and needles. This might be initially dismissed as insignificant, however, it's crucial to seek medical attention regardless of perceived severity. A seemingly benign sensation could be an indicator of a more profound internal impact that may not manifest immediately.

In moderate to severe cases, an electric shock can provoke intense muscle spasms, involuntary convulsions, or seizures. This happens as the electrical current disrupts the body's nervous system. Such symptoms could lead to consequential physical harm, including injuries from uncontrolled movements or falls.

In the most severe cases, an electric shock can lead to a complete loss of consciousness or even cardiac arrest. The latter occurs when the electrical current interrupts the heart's normal rhythm, potentially leading to immediate death or long-term health complications.

The physical harm from an electric shock accident can extend far beyond the immediate symptoms. Long-term issues may include chronic pain, psychological trauma, burns, nerve damage, and even loss of function in certain limbs. This underscores the potentially devastating impact of electric shock incidents and highlights the importance of pursuing an electric shock compensation claim if you have been a victim of such an accident due to someone else's negligence or malpractice.

Electrical Burn Claims

Electrical burns are a harrowing consequence of electric shock incidents, and can be incredibly debilitating and life-altering. These injuries can be excruciatingly painful, leaving victims grappling with extended periods of discomfort and significant changes to their lifestyle.

In many cases, the treatment for electrical burns necessitates surgical intervention. This might involve procedures to clean the burn wounds to prevent infection, debride damaged tissue, or to perform skin grafts. A skin graft is a sophisticated surgical procedure where healthy skin is transplanted from one area of the body to the burn site. This is particularly necessary in cases where the burns are extensive or deep, and natural healing is not a viable option. Such procedures can be intricate, risky, and may necessitate lengthy recovery periods, adding further stress to the victim's situation.

Internal burns represent some of the most serious and distressing forms of electrical burn injuries. They occur when the electrical current passes through the body, impacting not only the skin but also deeper tissues, muscles, and bones. These burns can be deceptive as their external indications may seem minor, while the underlying damage is profound. They can lead to significant health complications including organ damage, impaired body functions, and in severe cases, can be fatal.

In addition to the physical trauma, victims of electrical burns often face an uphill psychological battle. The visible scarring and disfigurement can lead to a diminished self-image and emotional distress. Individuals may also suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression as a result of the incident.

Electrical Fire Injury Claims

These are particularly dangerous as they are often made worse by using water to try and extinguish them and can cause a subsequent electric shock. Most electrical accidents at work are the result of poorly maintained equipment, faulty or exposed wiring, contact with overhead power lines, or inadequate training.

We have helped thousands of clients to successfully win their claims following accidents at work, so if you have been injured while carrying out your job and it wasn’t your fault then you need to speak to qualified solicitors as soon as possible.

What can cause electric shock accidents at work?

Electrical accidents could potentially happen to anyone. However, the risk is obviously greater if you are working with electricity, wiring, machinery, or electrical devices directly on a regular basis.

A voltage as low as 50 volts can block the electrical signals between the brain and the muscles, and could potentially stop the heart beating, prevent the person from breathing, or cause spasms.

Some of the common causes that lead to electric shock accidents are:

• Electrical equipment that has not been properly maintained or tested
• Poor electrical staff training
• Faulty or malfunctioning electrical equipment
• Damaged or deteriorated electrical wiring
• Water or liquids coming in contact with electrical equipment
•  Faulty switches and sockets

The exact effect of an electric shock depends on a number of factors including the voltage, the parts of the body which come into contact, the presence of moisture, and the length of time the current flows.

The personal injury solicitors at PSR, regularly represent electricians in injury at work claims, so you can trust us to help you too.

It is your employer’s responsibility to take all reasonable steps to minimise the risk of electric shocks to their employees. A failure to do so may be deemed negligence. If you have suffered an electric shock at work which you believe was someone else’s fault call PSR Solicitors today.

What equipment commonly causes electrical accidents?

Many electrical shock accidents are caused by malfunctioning, faulty or poorly maintained equipment or appliances. These products are used in many lines of work, which means a wide range of workers could be at risk of electrocution and electric injuries.

The most common pieces of equipment which cause electric shock when failing include:

• Commercial kitchen equipment

It is not uncommon to suffer an electric shock injury while working in a commercial kitchen. The presence of liquids in the preparation of food, wet floors and surfaces can be a risk when combined with electrical appliances and equipment.

• Computers and technology

While computers, servers and IT equipment require a lower level of maintenance to ensure protection from electrical accidents, these can still happen when dealing with faulty goods. This is especially true with high voltage IT equipment.

•  Powered tools

Tools in the workplace come in all shapes and sizes, and electrical accidents can happen. Whether from mishandling of equipment or defective machinery, electrocution is a real risk for those who work daily with high-power electric tools.

Electrical accidents can happen in all types of environments; therefore, it is vital that proper health and safety protocols are upheld. If you have suffered an electrical accident injury at work, and you believe this has happened because of negligence from your employer, contact our Electrical Shock Claims Solicitors at PSR today.

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The Duty of Care in the Workplace

In the UK, all employers are bound by law to ensure the safety and welfare of their employees while at work. This responsibility, also known as the "duty of care," is not just a moral obligation but a legal one that employers owe to their employees. It requires employers to take reasonable steps to protect workers from harm, which includes preventing electric shock accidents.

If your employer has failed in these duties, and you have been hurt as a result, then you are able to pursue a compensation claim to cover your medical treatments, loss of earnings and additional expenses resulting from your accident. These may fall under either general damages or special damages.

In the context of electric shock accidents, the employer's duty of care encompasses a variety of responsibilities. These may include:

• Ensuring that all electrical equipment, systems, and installations are safe to use and properly maintained.
• Implementing safe working practices and making sure they are adhered to.
• Providing adequate training and information about the risks associated with electrical equipment and how to work safely.
• Supplying protective equipment where necessary and ensuring that it is properly used.
• Adherence to these practices should minimise the risk of electric shock accidents occurring in the workplace. However, when these standards are not met, and a worker suffers an electric shock as a result, the employer could be held liable for breaching their duty of care.

Many of our clients are understandably concerned about pursuing action against their employer and worry how this might impact on their job in the future. It is illegal for your employer to harass you or make life uncomfortable for you at work as a result of your claim and you are fully protected in this regard.

Your employer will have employer’s liability insurance to cover accident claims, so your compensation won’t impact them financially. We cover all areas of employment law as part of our legal service to you and will advise and support you throughout.

About Electric Shock Compensation Claims

If your accident has taken place in the last three years and was caused fully or partially by someone else, then you could be entitled to compensation. Your final settlement will depend on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your work-life and whether you are expected to make a full recovery.

Your compensation award is a justified financial redress for what has happened and is designed to protect you from any financial hardship resulting from your injury and to pay for the best medical care.

More specifically it will cover:

• Private healthcare
• Rehabilitation
• Counselling
• Specialist equipment
• Loss of earnings
• Additional expenses

We are acutely aware of just how essential your electric shock injury compensation will be to your financial security and recovery and will work tirelessly on your behalf to achieve the best possible results and get your life back on track.

How will the value of my electric shock claim be assessed?

The compensation awarded in an electric shock accident claim depends on various factors. It's crucial to understand that each claim is unique and is treated on an individual basis, which means the compensation received can vary from case to case.

However, there are certain general factors that will influence the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.

Severity of Injuries: The more severe and long-lasting your injuries are, the higher your compensation is likely to be. This includes not only physical injuries but also any psychological harm you may have suffered as a result of the accident.

Loss of Earnings: If your injuries have resulted in time off work, either for recovery or ongoing medical treatment, your compensation could include a sum to reflect this loss of income. This also includes any future loss of earnings if you're unable to return to work or have to take a lower-paid job.

Medical Expenses: Any costs you've incurred as a result of your injuries can be included in your claim. This includes the cost of treatment, medication, therapy, and any necessary adaptations to your home.

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering is designed to reflect the physical pain and psychological distress you've experienced as a result of your accident.

Future Care Costs: If your injuries require long-term or lifelong care or support, this will be factored into your compensation.

Impact on Lifestyle: If your injuries have had a significant impact on your quality of life or have prevented you from participating in activities you used to enjoy, this can also be taken into account.

By meticulously documenting all of these factors, your legal team can build a robust claim that accurately reflects the true impact of your accident, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation that you are entitled to.

About Electric Shock Compensation Claims

If your accident has taken place in the last three years and was caused fully or partially by someone else, then you could be entitled to compensation. Your final settlement will depend on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your work-life and whether you are expected to make a full recovery.

Your compensation award is a justified financial redress for what has happened and is designed to protect you from any financial hardship resulting from your injury and to pay for the best medical care.

More specifically it will cover:

• Private healthcare
• Rehabilitation
• Counselling
• Specialist equipment
• Loss of earnings
• Additional expenses

We are acutely aware of just how essential your electric shock injury compensation will be to your financial security and recovery and will work tirelessly on your behalf to achieve the best possible results and get your life back on track.