When people work around high-voltage electricity, serious risks are involved. One dangerous outcome can be electrocution, which happens when someone comes into contact with a live electrical current. Sadly, these incidents often lead to very severe injuries or death. In cases involving utility companies or other entities responsible for keeping high-voltage lines safe, there may be ways to hold the company responsible if protocols are ignored.
What Is Electrocution and Why Is it so Dangerous?
Electrocution happens when an electric current passes through the body. High voltage, like that found in power lines, can cause fatal injuries if proper safety steps aren’t taken. Electricity flows quickly and can pass through a person’s body swiftly. The heart, lungs, muscles, and other organs can be affected when this happens. If the current is strong enough, it can stop the heart or damage the brain. Some people may lose consciousness, fall from heights, or suffer other traumatic injuries due to the shock. Survivors may face a lengthy recovery period and, in some cases, may never fully recover.
Working Near High-Voltage Power Lines
Utility companies often hire workers for tasks around power lines, like repairs, inspections, and painting tall electrical towers. For these jobs to be safe, companies should turn off the power if workers are close to live wires, as keeping the power grid on might be convenient but can put lives at risk. For instance, a worker near live wires could face danger if a company is hired to paint an electrical tower, but the power isn’t switched off. Electrical currents can travel through the metal tower or even through the air, causing severe injuries and fatalities if the worker isn’t aware of the risk or can’t keep a safe distance.
Responsibility and Legal Actions
In the event of an accident like this, questions about responsibility naturally arise. Utility companies are typically required to protect people working on or near their equipment, and if they neglect to turn off the power or follow necessary safety steps, injured workers or their families may have grounds to file a legal claim. Establishing responsibility involves investigating whether the utility company ignored safety guidelines, such as not powering down the grid, failing to post warning signs, or neglecting to inform workers about potential risks.
Seeking Legal Help
If you or someone you care about has been injured while working around high-voltage electricity, seeking legal advice is pivotal. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, guide you through the process, and work to hold the responsible party accountable. Electrocution injuries can be life-changing, and having the right support can make a difference. These cases can be complicated, but you can seek justice and compensation with proper legal guidance. If you have questions about a possible electrocution-related injury case, DelVecchio & Miller, LLC is here to help. Call us at (412) 434-1400 or contact us online to learn more about your options.