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by The Stoddard Firm - September 1st, 2023
The power grid is a constant presence in most people’s lives, whether or not they’ve ever studied electrical engineering.
Most people, and most companies, know better than to have someone without proper training work directly on electrical systems. Still, even if the only people who ever intentionally touch electrical infrastructure are trained professionals, the rest of us are never far away from it, at home or at work. On top of that, even trained professionals can end up in danger if they’re badly supplied, misinformed, or working on systems with unknown flaws.
Every mistake and bad decision that goes into an electrical system can put an untold number of people in danger, for as long as the system remains in operation.
A man is currently receiving treatment for second- and third-degree burns after coming in contact with high voltage current from the powerlines on Northside Industrial Blvd.
Officials believe the man worked for Aludyne Foundry, a local facility owned by the international Aludyne company, which constructs lightweight aluminum car parts. It’s not currently clear how the accident occurred, or whether his profession had anything to do with his contact with the power lines.
This was at least the second serious accident involving Columbus’s power lines this year. The other one took place in February, and ended with the death of a 26-year-old professional lineman.
Electricity is a known and predictable danger, and every organization that performs work on or near power lines has a duty to do its part to keep workers and bystanders safe.
This includes:
Because there are so many parties involved in keeping electrical infrastructure running and safe, narrowing down accountability for problems can be tricky. That doesn’t mean it isn’t feasible or worthwhile, however. In fact, when a city is facing recurring, serious accidents, as Columbus seems to be, enforcing accountability is crucial to protecting others in the future.
In addition to the challenge of determining who exactly is responsible for a specific power line accident, electrical injuries can be difficult to explain to a judge or jury.
Most people don’t have a strong understanding of how electrical systems work, so they may not be able to tell when an electrical hazard is abnormal, or whether a particular precaution is reasonable or not.
Electrical injuries also tend to be worse than they look, because much of the damage is internal, affecting the nervous system. Even the tissue burns may start under the skin rather than on the surface.
All of this means that it’s especially important for electrical accident survivors to work with a lawyer who has plenty of experience with this particular type of incident. The Stoddard Firm has experts on electrical injuries, and we specialize in complex cases where the negligent party is not immediately obvious.
If you are the survivor of the accident on Northside Industrial Blvd, or if you have also suffered an electrical accident in Georgia, reach out at any time to learn more about how we can help.
A dedicated, ethical advocate who takes on major corporations and global insurers with virtually unlimited resources. Known for high-profile cases featured on Courtroom Viewing Network, this attorney is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, they work tirelessly to secure justice and deliver results.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association, the Georgia Bar Association, and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association
Licensed in Georgia since: 2008
Education: University of Georgia School of Law
Personal injury compensation enables an injured individual to regain the same quality of life they had before the incident. This may entail funds for modifying a home for wheelchair accessibility or offering vocational training for those unable to return to their previous job. It is crucial for compensation to cover lost earnings and cover both past and anticipated medical costs.
We conduct interviews with colleagues, consult with attending healthcare professionals, and engage specialists to ensure we secure comprehensive compensation that aids our clients in re-establishing their life trajectories.
When deciding to hire an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you need to consider:
1. Who’s at Fault
If you’re in an accident and it’s unclear who’s responsible, seeking advice from an attorney is wise. Insurance companies may attempt to attribute damages to you in such scenarios. An attorney can shield you from counterclaims and cross-claims, safeguarding your rights.
2. The Severity of Injuries Sustained
When facing a lifetime of pain, suffering, and mounting bills, taking chances is not an option. A personal injury attorney is entrusted with averting lifelong financial strain.
3. If You’re Facing Insurance Company Denial or Delay
The intricate laws and procedures surrounding personal injury claims are areas where insurance companies capitalize on individuals’ lack of expertise. A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in this regard.
It’s possible but not necessarily probable and will likely depend on whether you want your case to go to trial. The majority of cases end in a settlement. Going to trial typically occurs when there are intricate, contentious matters regarding the accident’s cause or the severity of your injuries. Occasionally, defendants may simply be unyielding and unwilling to settle or you may just want more than the insurer believes is reasonable.
It shouldn’t be a shock if your attorney diligently pursues a settlement while also readying your witnesses for trial. A proficient lawyer must be equipped for any scenario. Demonstrating to the opposing party that we’re gearing up for a trial indicates that we’re resolute and not inclined to back down.
Determining all potential parties who could be held liable for a personal injury involves a thorough investigation of various factors. If someone else neglected to exercise reasonable care, they can be held accountable for the resulting injuries, as outlined in Title 51 of Georgia Code of Laws or as outlined in Georgia’s common law.
The individual directly involved in the accident may not be the sole party at fault. For instance, in the case of a drunk driving accident, while the driver may bear responsibility, the person who knowingly provided additional alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual could also be deemed liable. In other circumstances, an at fault party’s employer is responsible for its employees actions.
Following a personal injury accident, there are critical steps you should take. First and foremost, seek prompt medical attention. Visit the emergency room or call for an ambulance at the accident site. Any delay in receiving medical care could impact your health and the outcome of your personal injury case.
Refrain from discussing your case with the insurance company representing the at-fault party. They may deny your settlement or offer a significantly lower amount than you deserve.
Additionally, it’s crucial for both you and your personal injury attorney to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible. This is vital in establishing that your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence. Make an effort to collect records and documents related to your case, including medical records, police reports, photographs, witness contact information, and similar items. Once you’ve received medical attention, contact The Stoddard Firm.
Do not say anything! If an insurance company contacts you, refrain from providing any information until you have consulted with your attorney. Insurance companies typically contact accident victims in an attempt to elicit a statement about the incident, which they may use to devalue the settlement.
While you may eventually need to converse with them, seeking guidance from a seasoned legal team is crucial. They will provide clear instructions on what you should and should not disclose to protect the value of your case.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was revised and approved by Attorney Matthew B. Stoddard, who has more than 16 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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