What are the Common Causes of Electrocution Accidents in New Jersey?

Electrocution accidents are noted to be a leading cause of work-related injuries or deaths in the United States. Such accidents are common in households, as well. These injuries can be as serious as recurring seizures, heart attacks, paralysis, or even death. Continue reading to discover the common causes of electrocution accidents and how an experienced Morris County personal injury attorney at Lutz Injury Law can help determine if you have a proper case.

What are the most frequent causes of electrocution accidents in New Jersey?

On a worksite, electrocution injuries are usually caused by code violations or otherwise negligence. The following are some common incidents that occur for either workers or passersby of the worksite:

• Contact with an unsecured electric current, such as that of overhead or buried powered lines, wiring, transformers, machines, or tools.
• Improper use or discarding of extension cords.
• Fallen telephone lines.
• Electrical overloads.

If not for negligence on a worksite, electrocution accidents can be caused by third-party manufacturers of the tools and machinery used. That is, there can be shorts in tools due to manufacturing defects or malfunctions in commercial machinery.

Although likely to be less severe, electrocution injuries can also occur in the household due to negligence or third-party manufacturers. Below are a few examples:

• Contact with an unsecured electric current, such as that of appliances, or light fixtures.
• Electrical outlets that are placed in unsafe locations.
• Shorts in household appliances from manufacturing defects.
• Faulty wiring in locations like hot tubs or pools.

Should I file a workers’ compensation claim or a third-party personal injury claim?

If you received an electrocution accident while on the job due to negligence or code violations, you may be entitled to compensation to cover a portion of your lost wages and the cost of your medical bills, so long as your employer is required to recover workers’ compensation insurance. In this case, you should reach out to a skilled Morris County work injury attorney. It is important to note that you cannot take legal action against your employer if you file for workers’ compensation.

However, if you were injured due to a third-party manufacturer’s defective tools or machinery, you must instead file a third-party personal injury claim. If you were just a passerby of the worksite where you were injured, or if you were injured in your household, you must do the same.

CONTACT OUR MORRIS COUNTY FIRM

If you have been the victim of the negligence of another in an accident, please contact my office as quickly as possible following the subject accident. It is important to consult with us early on so that we may begin the process of fighting for your rights in regard to any potential claim that you may have. The process is complicated and requires the expertise of a qualified New Jersey personal injury attorney. Contact Lutz Injury Law today.