Electrocution and Electrical Burns in the Workplace

Rockland County Attorney Representing Workers Suffering from Electrocution and Electrical Burns in the Workplace

The workplace presents numerous hazards for employees across all industries, but one of the most dangerous, and often deadly, risks is electrocution and electrical burns. Electrocution and electrical burns in the workplace often lead to long-term health consequences, emotional trauma, and significant financial strain for affected employees and their families. Fortunately, New York’s workers’ compensation laws offer vital protections and benefits for employees, who are harmed on the job. If you or someone close to you has suffered electrocution and electrical burns in the workplace, you may be entitled to benefits, and you should speak to an attorney. Valerie Crown of The Law Firm of Valerie J. Crown, Attorney at Law, P.C., is a skilled Rockland County workers’ compensation attorney with the experience and resolve needed to help injured workers recover the benefits they deserve, and if you engage her services, she will fight tirelessly to help you protect your interests. Ms. Crown represents clients throughout Rockland, Westchester, Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, and Putnam Counties, as well as in the greater New York City metropolitan area.

Understanding the Dangers of Electrocution and Electrical Burns in the Workplace

Electrocution and electrical burns in the workplace are among the most serious and potentially fatal injuries a worker can sustain. These injuries typically occur when a worker comes into direct or indirect contact with an electrical source, whether from exposed wiring, defective equipment, downed power lines, or improperly grounded machinery. Construction workers, electricians, line installers, and maintenance workers are particularly vulnerable, although any employee working near electricity can be at risk.

The harm, caused by electrocution and electrical burns in the workplace, can range from minor burns to life-threatening injuries. High-voltage electrical exposure can cause deep tissue destruction, cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, nerve damage, and severe muscle injuries. Even seemingly minor electrical burns may cause internal damage that leads to long-term complications. In addition to physical harm, many workers suffer emotional trauma, anxiety, or depression following an electrocution incident, particularly if the event resulted in a near-death experience or the injury of a co-worker. Recovery can require extensive hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment, often forcing victims to miss extended periods of work.

Eligibility for Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Electrocution and Electrical Burns in the Workplace

Under New York law, most employees, who suffer electrocution and electrical burns in the workplace, are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits regardless of who was at fault for the accident. As long as the injury occurred during the course of employment, the worker should qualify for benefits. These include a broad array of supports designed to help workers recover physically and financially.

One of the most important components of workers’ compensation is medical benefits. Injured employees are entitled to have all necessary medical care covered, including emergency treatment, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, psychological counseling, and specialist consultations. There is no cost to the worker for authorized treatment, and workers may also be reimbursed for travel to and from medical appointments, as well as over-the-counter medications prescribed by an authorized provider.

Injured employees may also be eligible to recover disability benefits. If a worker is temporarily unable to return to work due to electrocution and electrical burns in the workplace, they may receive temporary total disability benefits. These payments are generally equal to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, up to a maximum set by the state. If the employee can work in a limited capacity but earns less than before the injury, they may be eligible for temporary partial disability benefits to help bridge the gap. In more serious cases, permanent partial or permanent total disability benefits may be awarded, depending on the severity and lasting impact of the injury. Vocational rehabilitation may also be available for workers unable to return to their previous position, providing job training and placement services to facilitate reemployment. In tragic circumstances where electrocution causes fatal harm, surviving family members may be entitled to death benefits under New York’s workers’ compensation law.

Consult a Trusted Rockland County Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

Electrocution and electrical burns in the workplace can be a life-altering event, impacting every aspect of your well-being and livelihood. Fortunately, New York’s workers’ compensation system offers essential benefits to help you navigate recovery and move forward with confidence. If you were injured while performing your job duties, it is in your best interest to speak to a knowledgeable attorney about your rights. Valerie Crown of The Law Firm of Valerie J. Crown, Attorney at Law, P.C., is a trusted Rockland County workers’ compensation attorney, who understands the complex challenges facing injured employees, and if she represents you, she will diligently pursue the benefits you need and deserve. Ms. Crown represents injured workers in Rockland, Westchester, Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, and Putnam Counties and throughout the greater New York City metro area. To schedule a confidential consultation, call the office at 845-708-5900 or Valerie’s direct cellphone 24/7 at 845-598-8253, or fill out the firm’s online contact form.