Electrocution

The physical response to electrocution can be extensive and permanent. Among the many effects include heart muscle damage, cardiac arrest, seizure, neuropathy, cognitive defects, brain damage, and respiratory failure. In the worst cases, electrocution can lead to death.

A significant percentage of electrocutions occur in the workplace. Under North Carolina law, there will almost always be a viable workers’ compensation claim when this happens. However, there may also be an additional personal injury claim if the electrocution incident was the result of the negligence of someone other than the employer. For example, if you are employed by a contractor and are electrocuted due to the negligence of the owner of the property where you were working, you may pursue your damages from that property owner. The damages available in such a suit are far more extensive than those available through North Carolina’s workers’ compensation system. For example, you can recover compensation for physical and mental pain and suffering.

Many electrocutions also occur due to residential rental property defects. Chapter 42 of the North Carolina General Statutes provides strong protections for tenants, including requiring landlords to keep their properties “fit and habitable.” If the landlord fails to do so, and you or a loved one is electrocuted as a result, you may hold the landlord financially responsible. This potentially includes recovery for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and permanent injury.

To contact the Raleigh electrocution lawyers of Maginnis Howard, visit our contact page. Our firm offers free consultations to all electrocution victims. Additionally, we provide a contingency fee arrangement whereby you pay no attorneys’ fees unless and until we make a financial recovery on your behalf. And, since electrocution injuries can be completely debilitating, we will travel across North Carolina to meet with you.