Alabama Shock Injury and Electrocution Accident Attorney

Dothan attorney builds cases for electrical wiring injuries

 Electric shock accidents are far too common on construction sites. Electrocutions occur with such frequency that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)has them listed among the “Fatal Four” construction site accidents. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to an electric shock, an Alabama electrocution accident attorney at Carey & Hamner, P.C. in Dothan can explain your rights and take the actions needed to recover the compensation you deserve.

Devastating effects of electric shock and electrocution accidents

Construction site injuries resulting from contact with electric current include the following:

  • Electrocution — This is fatal exposure to electric current from direct contact with a power source.
  • Electric shock — This is contact with electric current causing mild to severe injury but not resulting in death.
  • Burns — Electric current can burn human tissue, whether on the surface or internally. Surface burns can be painful and disfiguring, while internal burns can cause loss of bodily function and necrosis. 
  • Neurological injury — The human nervous system operates using electrical impulses. Electric shock can overwhelm the system, causing injury to the brain, the central nervous system and peripheral nerves.

Bodily reactions from an electric shock can lead to further injury. For example, a shock can cause a worker to flinch or spasm and fall from a height or drop an object injuring another person.

Avoiding electrical accidents on a job site

Because of the risk of contact with power sources at construction projects, OSHA has implemented numerous safety regulations related to generators, power lines and power tool usage. Unfortunately, construction sites are dynamic workplaces that can be chaotic. Multiple subcontractors might be working on a site at the same time. Power sources might be placed in areas where other workers can come in contact with them or where tools might cut into wiring. Improper placement of power sources and wiring is the leading cause of preventable electric shock injuries.

Levels of severity of electric shock injuries

Electrical injuries can be disabling and even fatal. In severe shock cases, victims can suffer long-term consequences that include:

  • Mental impairment
  • Neuro-muscular issues
  • Disfigurement
  • Frequent seizures
  • Internal tissue impairment
  • Amputation of a damaged limb

The extent of the injury depends on various factors, including the voltage, the duration of exposure and the victim’s prior health.

Steps our Alabama electric shock accident attorneys will take

Our attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the accident. We gather physical evidence, take witness testimony and solicit reports from accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals. We work to build the strongest case possible, with the goal of letting you recover the full compensation you deserve. We negotiate fair settlements whenever possible but will take your case to trial if justice requires.

Damages available beyond workers’ compensation

Compensation for work injuries is often limited to workers’ compensation benefits. However, in electric shock cases, victims may be able to bring a negligence lawsuit against a third party that may have been at fault. This enables victims to recover lost wages in full, as well as compensation for their physical pain and mental suffering.

Contact our skillful Dothan electric shock accident lawyer for a free consultation

Carey & Hamner, P.C. represents victims of electric shock accidents in Dothan and throughout Alabama. Call 855-435-4797 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. If you are unable to visit our office due to your injuries, we can come to you.