by Tim O’Hare
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In 2010, 4,690 American workers were killed on the job (OSHA.gov). Of those, 18.7 percent, or 774, were workers killed on construction jobs. Of the “fatal four” leading causes of death in the construction industry, electrocution is second only to falls. In 2010, 76 construction workers died after suffering electrocution on the job.
In most instances of electrocution accidents, the outcome is fatal. Electrocution causes neuropathy and heart fibrillation that leads to cardiac arrest. Even when electrocution is not fatal, the victim is left with serious burns to the skin and muscle tissue and any number of the following medical conditions:
- Brain damage including memory loss, loss of cognitive abilities, noticeable changes in behavior or temper
- Nerve damage
- Seizures
- Damage to heart muscle
- Heart arrhythmias
- Damage to internal organs
- Broken bones
- Vision loss
- Hearing loss
In many cases, workplace accidents are a result of poor safety standards or negligence. Malfunctioning tools or flawed products can lead to electrocution. Victims of electrocution on the job may be entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits, a third party liability claim, a products liability claim or other claims for the pain, suffering and medical expenses they endure.
In many cases of electrocution on the job, a spouse of the injured can seek compensation for loss of spousal consortium and some states permit children of the injured or deceased to seek loss of parental consortium.
While it is worth mentioning that workplace deaths have been steadily declining since 1970 (from 38 worker deaths per day to 13 per day in 2010), the fact of the matter remains: many jobs are potentially hazardous and could result in injury or death to workers.
If you have been injured by electrocution on the job or have lost a family member due to electrocution, you need a personal injury attorney with integrity, who will do everything to help you. Contact the experienced legal team at The Law Offices of Tim O’Hare. We will help you receive all due compensation for your injury or loss.
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