Electrocution Accidents in New York City
Electrocution accidents can happen anywhere in New York City, not just in the workplace. Whether at home, in public spaces, or on commercial properties, exposure to electricity can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities.
Victims often face overwhelming medical expenses, long-term physical limitations and significant financial hardship.
If you or a loved one suffered an electric shock injury due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Speak with an experienced New York City electrocution accident lawyer to understand your legal options.
NYC Electric Shock Accident: Causes & Statistics
Electrical accidents are more common than many realize. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), between 2011 and 2022, 1,322 workplace fatalities involving electrocution occurred.
There are various factors behind electrical accidents, but many are preventable and only happen because of carelessness.
Workplace Electrical Accidents
Electrical workers, contractors, and other professionals face significant risks due to their exposure to high-voltage environments. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), electrical accidents are the fourth leading cause of workplace fatalities.
Common causes of workplace electrical injuries include:
- Insufficient workplace safety training
- Aging or deteriorating electrical wiring
- Defective or unsafe tools and equipment
- Contact with exposed power lines
Residential Electrical Accidents
Electrical hazards are not just limited to job sites – many occur in homes across NYC. The NIH reports that approximately 30,000 electrical injuries occur annually, with 20% affecting minors, particularly toddlers and adolescents.
Frequent causes of residential electrical accidents include:
- Faulty appliances (e.g., refrigerators, ovens, air conditioners, washers, and dryers)
- Outdated or improperly installed wiring that violates NYC building codes
- Absence of ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms
- Defective consumer electronics such as computers and home entertainment devices
Electrical Hazards in Public & Commercial Spaces
Many of the same dangers found in homes also exist in public places and commercial properties such as restaurants, office buildings, and tourist attractions.
Property owners are responsible for ensuring electrical safety by addressing potential hazards, such as:
- Poorly maintained electrical systems
- Unsafe lighting installations
- Exposed wiring or malfunctioning outlets
How Electrical Accidents Affect Your Body
When exposed to an electrical current, it travels through the body, causing severe damage depending on factors such as voltage, duration, and the current’s path.
Common Injuries from Electrical Accidents
Tissue Damage & Burns
Electrical currents can cause severe burns both externally and internally, affecting vital organs and leading to long-term complications.
Cardiovascular System Injuries
Electric shocks can disrupt heart function, leading to conditions such as asystole or ventricular fibrillation, which, if untreated, may result in fatal electrocution
Central Nervous System Damage
Severe electric shock can impair brain functions, potentially causing respiratory failure and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Musculoskeletal System Damage
Electric currents can severely impact muscles and organs, often causing injuries from falls or being forcefully thrown due to the shock’s impact.
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