There are few work-related accidental injuries that are more dangerous than electrocution. Exposure to an electrical current can lead to severe burns, paralysis, and death. When they happen at work, you could be entitled to compensation if they resulted from an act of negligence. A dedicated work injury attorney could assist you with pursuing a lawsuit against your employer.
Most states prevent lawsuits against employers as part of the workers’ compensation system. Texas is unique in that it allows companies to opt out of this system, leaving them vulnerable to negligence lawsuits. A Galveston workplace electrocution lawyer could help you seek the damages you deserve from your employer.
There are different situations where a person could be electrocuted on the job. More often than not, these accidents occur at construction sites due to the increased presence of exposed wiring. However, they can occur in virtually any industry—especially when a company is negligent.
Exposed wiring is the most common cause of electrocution. While this is most likely to occur in a construction site, the lack of maintenance or repair can lead to issues with wiring anywhere. Other hazards include:
Any of these circumstances could result in life-altering injuries. A Galveston workplace electrocution attorney can investigate the cause of an accident and hold the responsible parties liable.
In most places, suing an employer for a work-related injury is not an option. While workers’ compensation laws generally prohibit litigation in favor of a no-fault insurance system, Texas is unique in allowing companies to opt out. These businesses—known as non-subscribers—are not bound by workers’ compensation rules. They are also not protected by them, allowing employees to sue for negligence after being electrocuted on the job.
Not all companies opt out, but legal action is possible against those who do. These cases can be complex, as there must be evidence of negligence in order to recover compensation after an accident. Let an attorney advise when this type of legal action is an option.
While a worker may have the right to sue their employer after an electrocution accident on the job, they can always pursue a claim against other parties that might be at fault. These third parties are anyone other than the employer or co-workers, including independent contractors, vendors, or even someone trespassing at a construction site.
Workers’ compensation laws do not extend beyond the company and the people that work for it, meaning that third parties are always a potential target for legal action. Like with any personal injury case, a plaintiff must be able to show that the third-party electrocuted them due to an act of negligence. A Galveston workplace electrocution attorney could build the strongest possible case for compensation in these situations.
Electrocution can have a devastating impact on your life, as well the lives of your loved ones. If this injury occurred on the job, you may have the right to file a lawsuit against your employer. Handling a non-subscriber claim on your own is risky. Instead, consider relying on the guidance and support of a Galveston workplace electrocution lawyer. Learn about your legal options during a confidential consultation.
SMS Legal