Electrical Accidents
Accidents in the workplace related to electricity injure thousands of employees every year. While the construction trade statistically sees more electrocution work injuries, because electricity is omnipresent today, any work situation may pose its risks. If you are injured in an electrical accident, the good news is that a New Jersey work injury lawyer can probably help.
Low and High Voltage Injuries
Injuries from electrical accidents are distinguished as either high or low voltage, depending upon whether the victim is exposed to more or less than 1000 volts. While certainly it is not inaccurate to assume that the voltage level correlates with the risk of injury, it would be a mistake to think that a low voltage injury cannot be serious. Not only can sensitive nerve cells be damaged at low voltages, but the shock may cause a secondary injury as well.
For instance, suppose a worker approaches a machine that is in operation to make an adjustment. If the machine is not properly grounded the worker may receive an electric shock which burns the region of the skin where contact was made. Moreover, the worker may then be knocked backward onto the floor, or even against another machine, and receive yet another injury. Your New Jersey work injury lawyer is likely to see clients with many unusual injuries related to electrical accidents.
Common Causes and Injuries
Many professions by their nature expose workers to significant electrical hazards. Those which require work on power lines or in construction areas are particularly apt to lead to injuries. However, anyone job requiring work with or around machines, or where electrical currents may be compromised, can place employees at risk.
Injuries from electrocution include:
- Burns to the skin
- Internal burns
- Damage to nerves
- Damage to delicate tissue
- Heart failure
- Neurological damage
What is particularly onerous about electrical injuries is that they often leave victims permanently debilitated. Damage to organs is sometimes irreversible. The heart’s own reliance on electrical stimuli from the brain may be permanently disrupted. A New Jersey work injury lawyer will help clients who suffer such injuries receive the compensation they need to pay for cost of medical care, loss of income, and other damages.
If You Have Been Injured
If you are hurt on the job, you would do well to seek the assistance of a New Jersey work injury lawyer. Dan Matrafajlo is an experienced lawyer who will fight to help you gain compensation. Call 908-248-4404 today to arrange a free consultation.