Rhode Island Electrocution Injury Attorney

Electrocution & Electrical Injuries in Providence

Electrocution refers to a severe injury or death caused by an electric shock. It occurs when an individual comes into contact with a source of electricity, leading to the passage of electrical current through the body. Electrocution can happen due to various reasons, such as accidental contact with exposed wiring, faulty electrical appliances, power lines, or being exposed to high-voltage electricity.

The severity of electrocution depends on factors like the amount of current, the duration of exposure, the pathway the current takes through the body, and the voltage of the electrical source. Electric shocks can disrupt the normal functioning of the body's electrical systems. If the victim does not lose his or her life, such lasting injuries as severe burns, spinal cord injury, organ damage, eardrum rupture, and amnesia are just a few of the consequences of a severe electric shock.

Immediate medical attention is crucial for anyone who has experienced electrocution, as the effects can range from minor injuries to severe trauma or even death. It's essential to take preventive measures, such as following electrical safety guidelines, using proper insulation and protection when working with electricity, and being cautious around electrical sources to avoid the risk of electrocution.

The cost of emergency treatment and ongoing medical care may be considerable. The victim may be unable to return to work for a time, if at all. The family of a victim who has lost his or her life due to electrocution will be facing a future without the support, love, and care of their loved one.

Decof, Barry, Mega & Quinn, P.C. applies extensive experience to our clients’ electrocution cases. In over four decades handling personal injury and wrongful death actions across Rhode Island, our electrocution injury lawyers have built a strong reputation and track record for success in this complex field. We have the resources and expertise to secure the best possible result in every case we handle.

For more information on electrical injuries and the steps you should take to help you seek fair compensation call (401) 200-4059.

Causes of Electrocution

Electrocution can be caused by any type of contact with electricity. This can come from various sources and may have any of a number of causes, such as:

• Construction site electrocution
• A third-party’s failure to protect against electrocution
• Contact with live electrical wires: Direct contact with live wires, such as exposed electrical cables, power lines, or faulty wiring in homes or workplaces, can lead to electrocution. Accidentally touching or coming in contact with these energized wires can result in an electric shock.
• Faulty electrical appliances: Defective or damaged electrical appliances, such as frayed cords, malfunctioning equipment, or electrical devices with exposed wires, can pose a risk of electrocution if they come into contact with the body while still connected to a power source.
• Unsafe electrical installations: Poorly installed electrical systems, improper grounding, inadequate insulation, or DIY electrical work done incorrectly can increase the risk of electric shock and potential electrocution.
• Wet conditions: Water is a good conductor of electricity. Operating electrical equipment or being in contact with electrical sources in wet or damp environments, such as wet floors, flooded areas, or while handling electrical devices with wet hands, can significantly increase the risk of electrocution.
• Lightning strikes: Direct strikes from lightning can cause electrocution due to the extremely high voltage discharged by lightning bolts. Additionally, being in contact with objects or structures that are struck by lightning can also lead to indirect electrocution.
• Accidental contact with high-voltage sources: Touching high-voltage electrical equipment, power substations, or transformers without proper precautions or safety measures can result in severe electric shocks and electrocution.

Injuries Caused by Electric Shock

Electric shock can cause a number of serious injuries, depending on the voltage and the location of contact with the source of electricity.

We recommend calling a Rhode Island electrocution injury lawyer if you or a loved one has experienced any type of electrical injury, such as:

• Cardiac arrest
• Severe burns
• Nerve and other soft tissue damage
• Fractures from falling or being thrown
• Spinal cord injury
• Breathing problems
• Kidney damage
• Muscle damage
• Cataracts
• Amnesia
• Seizures
• Eardrum rupture
• Confusion
• Psychological trauma

Filing a Claim for Electrocution Injuries in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, if you've sustained injuries due to electrocution, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages.

To file a claim for electrocution injuries in Rhode Island, consider the following steps:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Ensure you receive proper medical care and keep records of all medical treatment related to the electrocution.

Notify Relevant Parties: Report the incident to the appropriate authorities or property owners if the electrocution occurred due to unsafe conditions on their property. If it was a workplace accident, report it to your employer and file a workers' compensation claim.

Consult an Attorney: Consult with a personal injury lawyer experienced in handling electrocution cases in Rhode Island. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, assess your case, and help determine the best course of action.

Gather Evidence: Collect evidence related to the incident, such as photographs of the scene, contact information of witnesses, medical records, and any documentation regarding the accident or injuries.

File a Claim: Your attorney can assist you in filing a personal injury claim against the responsible party. This might involve negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing legal action through the court system.

Statute of Limitations: Be mindful of Rhode Island's statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. In Rhode Island, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including those resulting from electrocution, is generally three years from the date of the injury. Failing to file within this time frame may result in losing the right to seek compensation.

Electrocution injury cases can be complex, so having legal representation can significantly benefit your case. A Rhode Island electrocution injury attorney can advocate for your rights, assess the extent of damages, and help pursue fair compensation for your injuries.

Electrocution Injury Damages in Rhode Island

The compensation you can recover for electrocution injuries can vary depending on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

• Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for past, current, and future medical bills related to the electrocution injuries. It covers hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, therapy, and any necessary medical equipment.
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If the electrocution injuries caused you to miss work or resulted in a decreased ability to work or earn income in the future, you may be compensated for lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and the overall suffering caused by the electrocution injuries.
• Disability or Impairment: If the electrocution resulted in a disability, permanent impairment, or limitations in your daily life or activities, you may seek compensation for these long-term effects.
• Property Damage: If personal property (e.g., clothing, electronic devices) was damaged due to the electrocution incident, you may be compensated for these losses.
• Punitive Damages: In certain cases involving extreme negligence or intentional harm, the court might award punitive damages to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
• Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where electrocution leads to the loss of life, surviving family members may seek compensation through a wrongful death claim. This can cover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional impact of the loss.

Contact Decof, Barry, Mega & Quinn, P.C. today at (401) 200-4059 to arrange your free consultation with our Rhode Island electrocution injury lawyers!