The modern world is utterly dependent upon electricity and Sonoma County is no different. We learn this lesson anew every time there is a natural disaster that affects the electricity that powers our homes and businesses. An earthquake, a hurricane a tornado – damage the electric grid and life grinds to a halt.
If you have been injured in an electrical accident or a loved on has been electrocuted call us for a free case evaluation today.
It’s a critical part of our world and most of us couldn’t imagine life without it.
Electricity is also profoundly dangerous though and it can kill instantly. In a typical year in the US, about 400 people are electrocuted, mostly in work place accidents, and last year 60 electrocutions were associated with consumer products.
The three most common product categories associated with electrocutions are small appliances, power tools, and lighting equipment.
And a lot of electrical accidents involve children who don’t always understand that electricity is dangerous. Many products now are child proofed, but not all and no one can anticipate the grim determination of a curious young boy or girl. In particular, you should keep them away from things like space heaters, irons, curlers and hair dryers.
Most accidents though are work-related. Not all are fatal; some leave severe burns. About 1,100 people per year suffer electrical burns. This can cause problems including long-lasting damage to organs, muscles and nerves and even amputations.
So what to do?
The most basic rule to protecting yourself is familiar: read the manual if there is one and obey safety instructions whether in a manual or from your employers. This simple act will greatly reduce the chance of accidents.
Children should be carefully supervised when they are around electrical products and should be taught to ask for help until they are old enough to handle products correctly (for example, kids should be taught to ask for help in plugging and unplugging electric devices.
Still, you can take all the precautions in the world and still suffer electrical injury, not least of all at work.
This can lead to large medical bills, loss of income and potential long-term health problems.
Our office will be glad to talk to you about any electrical injuries you may have suffered in or near Sonoma County. Whether your accident is a result of workplace negligence, poor wiring or a faulty electrical device, we will help you secure the compensation to which you are entitled. Call today.