Baltimore Electrocution Injury Lawyers
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, up to 10 percent of workplace deaths are caused by electrical accidents. Fortunately, the number of fatal electrical deaths has declined in the past 20 years, yet electrical accidents are still a major cause of job-related injuries. If you have been injured in an electrical accident on the job, you are entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits via your employer’s insurance company. Unfortunately, too many employees are unaware that they are eligible for such benefits, or how to pursue them. The Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton have a proven track record of reaching successful outcomes for clients who have been injured on the job.
High-Risk Jobs
The following workers tend to be more at risk for electrical accidents than others, simply due to the nature of their job and the fact that they are regularly exposed to hazards such as live wires and exposed cables.
- Electricians
- Tree trimmers
- Machine operators
- Roofers
- Carpenters
- Cement workers
- Cable installers
- Line workers
- Construction workers
Common Causes of Electrical Accidents
According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), most electrical accidents are caused by one of the following factors:
- Unsafe equipment of installation
- Unsafe environment
- Unsafe work practices
Injuries Caused by Electrical Accidents
When enough electric current enters the body, it can have fatal consequences. In fact, only one second of current flow at 50-150 milliamperes can be fatal. Fortunately, not all electrical accidents result in death, but they can cause serious, painful injuries that require immediate medical attention, and can take a long time to heal. Some of the more common electrocution injuries include:
- Burns
- Tissue damage
- Hemorrhage
- Nerve, muscle and tendon damage
- Broken bones
- Amputation
- Heart-related injuries
Steps to Take After an Electrical Accident
If you have been injured in an electrical accident, Workers’ Compensation will generally cover the costs of medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages. However, it is not uncommon for insurance companies to try to deny a claim, or try to limit the amount of compensation. In order to obtain the benefits you deserve, consider the following tips:
Report the Injury
Any workplace injury should be reported as soon as possible. Doing so ensures that you are being compliant, which will give you the best chance of reaching a successful settlement. When reporting the injury to your supervisor, be sure to provide as many details as possible about how the injury happened.
Seek Medical Attention
Depending on the severity of your injury, it is extremely important to get medical treatment. If your injuries are more serious, call 911 to be transported to the closest emergency room, or make an appointment to see your doctor if the injury is not life-threatening. The longer you wait to seek treatment the more the insurance company may think that your injury is not serious and does not warrant compensation.
Be sure to go to every scheduled appointment, keep detailed records of your treatment, including doctor visits, physical therapy, and all medication. Skipping an appointment could result in a termination of benefits.
Provide Detailed Documentation
If you are required to complete an accident report, you must be as detailed as possible about the circumstances surrounding your injury. Your account of the accident must be consistent with other reports in order for the insurance company to accept it. The insurance company may also request medical records and financial documentation related to the injury. If you are unsure about whether you are obligated to provide this information, your Workers’ Compensation lawyer can answer these questions and address your concerns.
Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Workers Injured in Electrical Accidents
If you or a loved one has been injured in an electrical accident while on the job, the Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton are on your side. We will guide you through every step of the claims process, providing a comprehensive explanation of the benefits you are eligible to receive. Protecting your rights and securing the maximum benefits you deserve are our top priorities. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.