Electricity is very dangerous and can cause serious injuries or death in a workplace accident. Injured workers in Illinois are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, but the process can be frustrating and confusing. The experienced Peru electrical injury lawyers at Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP help injured workers get the benefits they need and deserve after being in a work accident involving electricity.
An electrical injury can occur at many different types of jobs. Some workers are at higher risk, such as utility workers and electricians. But any worker who works in or around electricity is also at risk if there’s an accident.
There are four types of electrical injuries:
- Electric shock – This happens when a worker comes into direct contact with a source of electricity, which runs through the person’s body. This can lead to internal injuries that can range from minor to incredibly severe.
- Burns – Direct contact with a source of electricity can also leave noticeable and painful burns on the skin.
- Falls caused by contact with electricity – These falls can happen when a utility worker repairing a power line or a worker cutting trees near a power line come in direct contact with electrical current. The shock causes them to be thrown down onto the ground, which can result in strains, sprains and broken bones.
- Electrocution – If an electric shock is powerful enough, it can stop the heart and cause death.
A worker who survives an electrical injury can be left temporarily or permanently disabled. Workers’ compensation benefits pay for 100% of necessary medical expenses related to the injury, and workers can also collect two-thirds of their average weekly wage. Family members of workers who were electrocuted are eligible to collect burial expenses and survivor benefits.
Get an Experienced Lawyer to Help You Collect Benefits
But collecting workers’ compensation benefits is not a simple process. Employers and insurance companies may dispute the extent of your injury. They may take the position that you are ready to return to work, even though you are still recovering.
That’s when it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side, one who knows how employers and insurance companies try to limit the amount of benefits injured workers receive. Our attorneys know how to build a strong case to get you all of the benefits you should be getting. And if your claim is denied, we will fight for you every step of the way during the appeals process.
If you have suffered an electrical injury in a workplace accident, learn more about how we can help you. Contact us today.
