When you suffer a work-related electrocution accident, you may wonder how you will support yourself and your family while you recuperate from your injuries. Fortunately, you could recover workers’ compensation benefits that could help you get through these difficult times.
However, dealing with the insurance company for an electrocution accident may be more challenging than you thought. With help from your workers’ compensation lawyer, you could access the benefits you need when you need them most.
Common Causes of Electrocution Accidents at Work
You may be surprised to find that there are multiple ways in which electrocution accidents can occur on the job. Some types of electrocution accidents occur with more frequency than others. These include accidents caused by inadequate wiring, overload, ground faults, power lines, live parts, and temporary wiring. Here’s more:
Inadequate Wiring
The equipment used to wire electricity, including extension cords, can only handle the electric currents up to a certain amount. Once the energy exceeds these limits, you are at an increased risk for being electrocuted or causing a fire. Double check all your wiring equipment and gear, and know what the limits are before you begin the job at hand.
Overloads
When there are too many electric wires or equipment plugged into one circuit, the wiring may be considered inadequate and become overloaded. Here’s how it works: the temperature in the entire circuit system will rise until it catches on fire, or you may be attempting to resolve the electrical overload and run the risk of suffering an electrocution injury.
Ground Faults
Electricity runs through a closed circuit. When that circuit opens, electrical devices and equipment can become dangerous. If you touch electrical equipment in an open circuit, you can be electrocuted and suffer serious shock.
Fortunately, most electrical tools and equipment will have safeguards in place that allow the systems to remain closed and reduce the risk of electrocution and other injuries.
Power Lines
You might be surprised to learn that many power lines are not currently insulated. Although many power lines have been upgraded over the years, uninsulated power lines carry voltage that can become increasingly powerful. These wires can cause shock or electrocution if you accidentally touch them with a tool, vehicle, or while carrying out any other type of work-related task.
Live Parts
When electrical equipment is built with uninsulated openings, the equipment is inherently unsafe for workers. You may have to take additional steps to protect yourself when working with life parts by:
- Wearing additional protective gear
- Looking out for any warning signs
- Being as cautious as possible when you are working with live parts
Temporary Wiring
Temporary wiring can be used in specific instances and at specific capacities. Temporary wiring is known for being less resilient. Still, many workers often leave the wiring permanent, despite the risks of fires, burns, and electrocution caused when the temporary wires become defective or malfunction.
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Who Is Entitled to Workers’ Compensation?
Most states require the majority of its employers to provide employees with workers’ compensation protection coverage. When you are in an on-the-job accident, you may be eligible for work compensation benefits under the law.
If your employer does not carry worker compensation coverage despite being required to do so, you could file a civil lawsuit against them to recover your damages. It does not matter how long you have been employed with the company or how many hours you work each week. As long as you are considered an employee and your injuries occurred within the scope of your employment, you could be entitled to benefits.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Could You Be Awarded?
If your claim for workers’ compensation benefits has been approved after suffering an electrocution injury, there are multiple benefits you could expect to collect. Some of these include:
- Disability benefits – Disability benefits should account for approximately 2/3 of your average weekly earnings.
- Medical benefits – The insurance company should cover your medical expenses and fees in full.
- Vocational rehabilitation benefits – If you need to find a new line of work due to the severity of your injuries, the insurance company can cover the cost of your on-the-job training or education.
- Death benefits – The surviving family members of those who passed away from electrocution injuries could be entitled to death benefits and coverage of the decedent’s funeral and burial expenses.
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Call a Workers’ Compensation Personal Injury Law Firm
If you were involved in an electrocution accident at work and you were interested in getting help securing the workers’ compensation benefits you need, reach out to a workers’ compensation lawyer at Bader Scott Injury Lawyers. Call for your no-cost, risk-free consultation to get started on your case.
There might be important timelines to consider with your case. Your lawyer can keep you informed and on track. However, we can’t start to help you until you reach out.
Call or text (404) 888-8888 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
