Newsweek
Rated by Super Lawyers
AV Preeminent
Avvo Rating - 10.0
The National Trial Lawyers - Top 100 Trial Lawyers
GeorgiaTrend - Legal Elite

Electrocution Injuries on Construction Sites

Invisible and without sound or smell, electricity poses a unique danger to workers on construction sites. Electricity can only be felt; however, by the time you feel an electric shock, it is too late to protect yourself from harm. For this reason, construction site managers and employers are required to inspect each jobsite, identify potential electrical hazards, and set up necessary warning signs and barricades before allowing workers onto the jobsite. When the people responsible for maintaining a safe environment for construction workers fail to look for electrical hazards and implement proper safeguards, they should be held accountable for electrocution injuries that result.

Types of Construction Site Electrocution Injuries

While electricity can cause many different types of injuries, the three most common electrocution injuries that occur on construction sites include:

  • Injuries from falls or from contact with moving equipment that occurs after a worker experiences a low voltage electrical shock and can no longer safely maintain balance or physical control of the tools or equipment he or she was using when shocked.
  • Severe burns or death resulting from explosive gases inadvertently ignited by electrical equipment.
  • Death by electrocution or severe internal or external burns resulting from accidental contact with high voltage electrical lines or equipment.

Only workers who are qualified electricians should be allowed to work on energized electrical systems. If a worker who is not properly trained is tasked with electrical work and an electrocution injury occurs, the company, manager, or contractor in charge of the jobsite may be held accountable for the injury. Employers should also use barricades or other means to ensure workers always stay at least 10 feet from high voltage lines. For low voltage electrical systems, power lines should be completely insulated and grounded before any worker (other than qualified electricians) can work near those systems. Explosions can be prevented by not allowing any electrical devices to be operated where there is flammable or ignitable gas, vapor, liquids, or dust.

Another electricity-related safety precaution that must continuously be monitored is making sure all power cords are intact and secured so they will not come in contact with liquids, or be cut, pulled, or tripped over while in use. It’s easy for cords to move around and cause completely preventable accidents and injuries. All low and high voltage fuse boxes and control panels must also be locked, with warning signs clearly posted, so only qualified personnel can access them. Anytime these important safeguards are overlooked, bypassed, or carelessly implemented, those in charge of maintaining construction site safety may be liable for resulting electrocution injuries.

Call the Legal Team at KWF in Atlanta for Help after an Electrocution Injury

While construction work is a dangerous job, the danger should not arise from negligent safety and training practices. If you or a loved one has sustained an electrocution injury on a job site, please contact the Atlanta construction accident lawyers at Katz Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We can determine who may be held liable for your injuries and damages, and we will work to obtain the maximum amount of compensation available to you under the law. Our attorneys can be reached today at 404-460-0101 or 888-426-2100.

Client Reviews

I was in a head-on collision last year that put me in a wheelchair with a fractured femur. I needed an attorney and my cousin recommended this firm because he had used Briant Mildenhall for his accident. I was glad I called Briant because he always did what he said he would do and kept me informed...

Michael G.

After a head–on collision I had extremely serious injuries to my back and neck, and some internal injuries. I was airlifted to the hospital and started a huge amount of medical expenses accumulating. I hired a lawyer recommended by a friend but I was not satisfied. My cousin told me about this...

Ronda W.

After my car accident, I was looking for an attorney and came across the name Katz Personal Injury Lawyers. My intuition told me to call. I called in and Briant Mildenhall talked to me. He was very clear and honest about my options. As the case went forward, Briant and the staff at the law office...

Antonio J.

I am 100% satisfied. I called Rob the day after the accident. Everything he said that would happen did, every step of the way. He went beyond what we needed him to do. I would definitely use him again and recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer.

Steve H.

Robert Katz isn't your average personal injury lawyer. He has specialized knowledge and experience that the others don't.

Timothy W.

Contact Us

  1. 1 Free Consultation
  2. 2 No Obligation
  3. 3 Exceptional Personal Service
Complete the contact form or call us at (888) 426-2100
to schedule your free consultation.

Leave Us a Message

I have read the disclaimer. (Required)
Please note that sending us a message via our website or any other online property does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and any lawyer at Katz Wright & Fleming, LLC.