Heart Damage From Electric Shock

What Tenants Need To Know To Claim Compensation

 

Electrical burns, joint dislocation and heart damage from electric shock are all possible injuries during an electric shock incident. If your landlord has been negligent with maintaining electric installations and ensuring required legal standards, you may be able to make a personal injury claim for compensation.

Electric shock is when someone comes into contact with an electrical source which results in a current passing through the body. The severity of injuries depends on factors such as voltage level, how long you were exposed to the current and the current’s path through the body. If an electric shock is strong enough, a person may fall or be thrown to the force of the shock and this may result in secondary injuries.

 

If you believe you may have a claim for compensation, then Jefferies Claims may be able to assist. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

Types of Electric Shock Injuries

Electric shock injuries can range from mild to life-threatening. This includes not only heart damage from electric shock, but also different burns, broken bones, muscle and tissue damage, nerve and organ damage. Here we look at common injuries:

 

Burns

Electrical burns are among the most common injuries and can be classified into:

• Superficial burns affecting only the outer layer of the skin.
• Partial-thickness burns involving deeper layers of the skin.
• Full-thickness burns that destroy skin and underlying tissues, often requiring surgical intervention.

Heart Damage

Electricity can interfere with the heart’s normal rhythm, which can cause an irregular heartbeat or even cardiac arrest. High-voltage shocks are particularly dangerous in this regard.

Neurological Damage

Electric shock can cause nerve damage, leading to long-term issues such as numbness, weakness, or chronic pain. It is also possible for strong shocks to result in brain injuries, causing memory loss, cognitive impairments, or seizures.

Muscle and Tissue Damage

The passage of electric current through the body can lead to involuntary muscle contractions. This may potentially cause muscle tears, fractures, or even dislocations.

Internal Organ Damage

If electricity passes through vital organs, it may cause damage that is not immediately visible. For instance, the lungs, kidneys, or nervous system may suffer long-term effects.

Bone Fractures and Joint Dislocations

Electric shocks, particularly high-voltage shocks, can result in violent muscle contractions, which may lead to broken bones or dislocated joints. The force of these contractions can be strong enough to cause significant skeletal injuries

Fractures

High-energy shocks can cause enough force to break bones, particularly in the arms, legs, or ribs. It is important to note that victims may not immediately realise they have suffered a fracture due to the initial shock being experienced and accompanying pain.

Dislocations

Electric shock may cause violent involuntary contractions which can pull joints out of alignment. This may lead to painful dislocations, which require medical intervention or surgery.

Secondary Injuries

Victims of electric shock may fall or be thrown due the force of a high voltage shock. Due to falls or impact with objects, this may result in fractures, head injuries, or spinal damage.

Common Causes of Electric Shock Injuries in Rental Properties

Tenants who are exposed to possible electric shock injuries may suffer due to unsafe electrical installations, faulty appliances, or landlord negligence. Some common causes include:

• Exposed wiring: Worn or damaged electrical wiring can lead to electric shock when touched.
• Faulty appliances: Poorly maintained or outdated electrical appliances can develop faults.
• Lack of proper grounding: Electrical systems that are not correctly grounded pose a greater risk of electrocution.
• Water and electricity hazards: Faulty wiring in damp areas like bathrooms or kitchens can create a dangerous environment.
• Negligent electrical repairs: Poor-quality repairs or DIY electrical work by landlords can increase the risk of electric shock.

Can a Tenant Make a Personal Injury Claim?

Yes, a tenant who suffers an electric shock injury due to landlord negligence may be able to make a personal injury claim. Landlords have a legal duty to ensure their rental properties are safe for tenants. This includes maintaining electrical installations in good condition and complying with legal safety standards.

How To Claim For Compensation

If you have suffered an electric shock injury due to a landlord’s negligence, you may be able pursue a personal injury claim. You can only claim compensation if you can prove the landlord’s negligence directly caused your injuries. The process involves gathering evidence, which may include :

• Photographic evidence of faulty wiring or unsafe electrical installations.
• Medical records detailing injuries sustained from the electric shock.
• Reports from electricians or safety inspectors confirming electrical hazards.
• Witness statements from other tenants or neighbours.

Compensation typically covers medical costs, loss of earnings and pain and suffering.

Notifying the Landlord

The tenant should formally inform the landlord of the incident and the injury sustained. It is important to note if the landlord was previously aware of the hazard, but failed to address it.

Time Limits for Making a Claim

Personal injury claims must generally be made within three years from the date of the incident or from when the injury was discovered. However, exceptions may apply, such as cases involving children, where the three-year limit starts from their 18th birthday.

Next Step For A ‘No Win, No Fee’ Claim

Electric shock injuries can have severe consequences, and tenants may claim compensation if their injury results from landlord negligence. Jefferies Claims work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we will take you through the process so you can get the compensation you deserve.

To learn more and to discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact our team on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an free, no-obligation telephone consultation with a friendly member of our expert team.