Occupational fatalities due to electrocution are surprisingly common in certain professions. While electrical workers account for a majority of accidental electrocutions and deaths, construction, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, public utility and transportation occupations are also highly susceptible to on-the-job electrical accidents. Many other workers are also exposed to potentially dangerous electrical voltage on a daily basis and may be unaware of the risk involved.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, electrocution is the fourth leading cause of work-related fatalities. The danger can come from internal wiring, working too close to power lines or buried cables, or using heavy machinery, among other activities. In addition, electrical dangers often remain hidden in unsuspected areas.
When electrical accidents occur as a result of someone's negligence, through no fault of the employee, the employee's family may hold those who were at fault accountable for their actions and receive substantial compensation for the wrongful death of your loved one. Such negligence can occur in a number of ways including faulty wiring, poor placement of wires or cables, inadequate training, or failing to adhere to industry safety standards. Most occupational accidents, including electrocutions, are avoidable. So when accidents occur, it is likely that someone else was negligent and caused the harm. An experienced attorney can research your case and determine who is responsible for the death of your loved one.
Workers' compensation rarely covers the financial burdens placed on your family by losing a loved one who provided a major source of income. While death benefits vary significantly by state, such benefits typically entitle a surviving spouse to only a small percentage of the former earnings. Sometimes the amount may increase according to the number of surviving dependent children, but such increases can be meager. With rising inflation and cost of living, this benefit provides little financial support for a family. In addition, workers' compensation does not include payment for pain and suffering or the loss of companionship that your family experiences.
The burden placed on a family in a time of need can be great, and when the loss was caused by an on-the-job accident, you may be entitled to collect payment from a number of sources. When workers compensation is not enough, remedies may be available in filing a wrongful death claim. A qualified wrongful death or personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process of getting additional compensation and becoming financially whole again.
If you have lost a loved one due to a tragic electrical accident during the course of employment, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help you obtain compensation for your financial hardship.
Price Benowitz LLP handles criminal defense, immigration, and personal injury cases. The personal injury practice group is staffed by Maryland and DC personal injury lawyers Chamille Kittles and Rabihah Scott and Virginia accident lawyer Thomas Soldan. The firm has offices across Maryland and Northern Virginia.
