Electrical accidents are often due to either poor wiring or ill-advised behavior on the part of the victim. Many accidents are attributable to residences or businesses with poor electrical wiring or out-of-date electrical devices to prevent accidents. Damaged or old wires, loose connectors, and the like are often culprits to accidents. Wires should not be used if they are frayed or damaged. In addition, older buildings or appliances often lack devices such as three-prong outlets and plugs, polarized plugs, and ground fault circuit interrupters, which all help to prevent shock and electrocution.
Many bad habits can also lead to electrical accidents. Overburdening an outlet or cord is poor practice, as is using light bulbs that are the wrong wattage for the fixture. Wires should never be placed directly under carpets or rugs. In the workplace, creating a safe environment in which to work and using protective equipment are the best preventative measures.
Electric shock injuries are caused by lightning or electric current from a mechanical source passing through the body.
Injuries involving electrical shocks are responsible for about 1,000 deaths in the United States each year, or about 1% of all accidental deaths.
The severity of injury depends on the current's pressure (voltage), the amount of current (amperage), the type of current (direct vs. alternating), the body's resistance to the current, the current's path through the body, and how long the body remains in contact with the current. The interplay of these factors can produce effects ranging from barely noticeable tingling to instant death. Although the severity of injury is determined primarily by the voltage, low voltage can be just as dangerous as high voltage under the right circumstances. People have been killed by shocks of just 50 volts.
If you have suffered loss or been injured due to an electrical accident, call us today (954) 492-3457. Don't be victimized by the negligence of others.
