Electrical accidents are often devastating. Shocks can cause long-term damage that require ongoing rehabilitation, while sparks can result in third-degree burns.
Thankfully, injured parties—or their surviving loved ones—are usually entitled to compensation. Before they can seek compensation, however, they must determine who was to blame.
Let’s take a look at the various parties that are most often liable for electrical accidents:
1. Construction Contractors
When working around unfinished electrical systems, construction crews must employ extreme safety measures to avoid accidents. Should they fail to do so, serious injuries and even death can result.
Generally speaking, employers are liable for any damages their employees incur while performing their job duties. That means when an accident does occur on a construction site, the contractor is likely responsible. Contractors can also be held liable when passersby get hurt because the site is poorly contained.
2. Utility Providers
It probably comes as no surprise that electrical companies are liable for a significant number of electrical accidents. When they fail to do any of the following, catastrophic injuries are likely:
- Maintain high voltage power lines,
- Restore compromised infrastructure,
- Replace defective switches,
- Repair frayed wiring,
- Secure power installations with guards and/or fences, and
- Provide employees with adequate ongoing training.
If you were hurt in an electrical accident that the local utility provider could have prevented, you probably have grounds for legal action. You’re going to have to gather enough compelling evidence, however, to convince the insurance adjuster or Jury that they were negligent. Luckily, a resourceful electrical injury attorney can help.
3. Oilfield Operators
Operating an oilfield is incredibly dangerous work. Like construction contractors and utility providers, oilfield operators have an obligation to both their employees and the general public to mitigate disaster. Should they fail to do so, they can be held accountable for any losses that result from the associated electrical accidents.
How Can I Prove Liability for an Electrical Accident?
When putting together your claim, the strongest evidence of liability is going to depend on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Regardless of the specific kinds of proof you’ll need to obtain, though, you can count on a seasoned personal injury lawyer for strategic guidance every step of the way.
As long as you turn to a reputable firm, your legal team will be able to handle virtually every aspect of your claim. This will free you up to focus on more important matters, like making a full recovery. Your attorney will investigate the accident, compile evidence of liability, track damages, and negotiate for a fair payout. Should the insurance adjuster prove uncooperative, they’ll also prepare your case for court.
Discuss Your Case with an Electrical Injury Attorney in Long Beach
Your Injuries Are Personal to Me
To see if you have grounds for legal action following an electrical accident, turn to the Law Office of Michael D. Waks. For more than 30 years, our firm has been advocating for those who were wronged by others. Call (562) 206-1939 or complete the Contact Form on our website to set up a free initial consultation with an electrical injury lawyerin Long Beach.