The hum of electricity is the lifeblood of a construction site, powering tools and progress. But when that power is mismanaged—e.g., a frayed cord, an unmarked line, or faulty equipment—it can cause a life-altering injury in a fraction of a second. An electrocution accident is a uniquely violent event, an invisible force that can burn tissues from the inside out, disrupt your heart’s rhythm, and cause permanent nerve damage. You are left grappling not just with physical pain, but with the frightening uncertainty of a complex recovery and the inability to provide for your family. It is crucial to understand that this is not simply an accident you must bear alone. New York law recognizes the profound duty to maintain a safe work site, and it provides powerful legal avenues to hold negligent parties accountable far beyond the limits of a standard workers’ compensation claim.
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What Causes Electrocution?
Electrocution happens when the body comes into contact with an electrical current. When that current passes through a body, it can cause serious damage to tissues, muscles, and vital organs. Even relatively low levels of electricity can cause severe burns, nerve damage, or cardiac arrest to those exposed.
What Is a Common Cause of Electrocution on Construction Sites?
While many hazards exist on a job site, a common cause of electrocution on construction sites is contact with energized sources. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies electrocution as one of the “Fatal Four” causes of death in construction, highlighting the severity of this risk. These incidents often stem from unsafe conditions that could have been prevented with proper oversight.
Many electrocution accidents on New York construction sites are linked to a few specific hazards. These include direct contact with overhead power lines, the use of damaged or defective extension cords, improperly grounded equipment, and exposure to unfinished or unprotected wiring. General contractors and property owners have a duty to maintain a reasonably safe work environment, which includes implementing safety protocols to prevent electrical injuries. When they fail in this duty, they may be held responsible for the consequences.
How Falls on a Job Site Can Result from Electrical Shock
Many people assume the primary injury from an electrical accident is the burn itself. However, many serious injuries occur when falls on a job site can result from electrical shock. When a powerful current passes through the human body, it can cause severe involuntary muscle contractions. This sudden jolt can easily throw a worker off balance, causing them to fall from a ladder, scaffolding, roof, or another elevated surface.
This scenario creates a complex injury case involving both the electrical shock and the trauma from the fall. New York has specific laws to protect workers in these situations. Under the Scaffold Safety Law, property owners and general contractors can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by falls from height. This means if you fall and get hurt due to an electrical shock, you may have a strong claim against the property owner and general contractor, regardless of who was directly at fault for the electrical issue.
Can You Sue for Getting Electrocuted at Work?
This is a critical question for many injured workers, and the answer is more complex than a simple yes or no. The question “Can you sue for getting electrocuted at work?” depends on who was responsible for the hazardous condition. In New York, the workers’ compensation system is designed to provide medical benefits and partial wage replacement to employees injured on the job.
However, workers’ compensation benefits do not cover damages for pain and suffering or the full scope of your lost future earnings. Fortunately, the law allows you to file a third-party lawsuit against other negligent parties who contributed to your injuries. These third parties could include:
- The property owner,
- The general contractor,
- A subcontractor from a different company,
- The manufacturer of faulty equipment, and
- An outside electrical company.
Filing a third-party lawsuit allows you to seek compensation for the full impact the injury has had on your life, which is often far more than what workers’ compensation provides.
How Much Compensation for Electric Shock Can I Receive?
When clients ask about financial compensation after an electric shock, the answer depends entirely on the unique facts of their case. There is no predetermined amount. In a third-party lawsuit, we can help you fight for recovery that addresses the total scope of your losses, unlike the limited benefits from a workers’ compensation claim. The goal is to secure funds that account for every way the injury has affected you and your family.
Following serious electrocution accidents, you may be able to pursue compensation for a wide range of damages. A successful third-party claim may provide financial recovery for the following:
- All past and future medical expenses, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication;
- The full amount of your lost wages and income;
- Diminished future earning capacity, if you cannot return to your previous job;
- Physical pain and suffering;
- Emotional trauma and mental anguish;
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement; and
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
Our attorneys will carefully evaluate your case to build a comprehensive claim for damages tailored to your specific situation.
Why Choose Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers
Since 1959, Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers has been a steadfast advocate for injured workers and their families throughout New York. Our firm was founded on the principle of providing dedicated and compassionate legal guidance to those facing the most difficult times in their lives. With decades of experience, we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients, giving them the resources needed to rebuild. We understand that a legal case involves more than just filing paperwork; it is about restoring a person’s life. Our bilingual staff is ready to assist Spanish-speaking clients, helping make sure that language is never a barrier to justice.
We Are Ready to Help with Your Electrocution Accidents Now
After a serious construction accident, your focus should be on your physical and emotional recovery. Let us handle the complexities of the legal process. We will investigate your accident, identify all liable parties, and pursue the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can help you move forward.
