An electric shock injury can be very serious and life-altering and it’s important that people know what it is, what it isn’t, what its causes and symptoms are, and what treatments are appropriate for injured victims.
Being aware of this information will help people prevent or reduce the extent of electrical injuries, protect their loved ones and themselves, and know what to do if tragedy strikes.
What is electric shock?
An electric shock occurs when a current of electricity passes through the body, which can happen through contact with live wires, faulty appliances, or other sources of electricity. The severity of injuries depends on factors such as voltage, current, the path the electricity takes through the body, and the duration of contact. Effects can range from mild tingling and numbness to severe burns, nerve damage, or life-threatening cardiac arrest. Understanding the risks and knowing how to respond—such as safely disconnecting the source of electricity, seeking emergency medical attention, and providing first aid when necessary—can help prevent serious injury or death.
What causes electric shock?
Electric shock is caused when an electric current passes through the body, usually as a result of contact with live wires, faulty power equipment, or other sources of electricity. Common causes include damaged appliances, exposed wiring, water or moisture near electrical devices, workplace hazards, defective products, and even natural events like lightning. The severity of an injury depends on factors such as voltage, the strength of the current, the path it takes through the body, and how long a person is exposed, with even minor accidents posing serious risks if vital organs are affected.
Causes of accidents with electricity include:
- Contact with a powerline or electrical arc flash
- Accidental contact with exposed electrical sources
- Faulty electrical wiring, installations and repairs
- Contact with metal, growing vegetation, or other conductive material exposed to electrical current, such as a metal ladder that touches a powerline or other exposed wire
- Accidental contact with a downed power line, or with the earth near a downed powerline
- Faulty swimming pool pumps or swimming pool lights, unbonded surfaces near a pool, or pool deck outlets lacking GFIC safety devices
- Shock from faulty or unprotected electrical products, such as household appliances (e.g., hair dryers and toasters), power tools, medical devices, outlets, electrical plugs and extension cords
- Three-prong-to-two-prong grounded plug adapters
- Lightning from thunderstorms
- Construction machinery, such as cranes, scaffolds, lifts, dump trucks, ladders, and long conductive handled tools making contact with power lines
- Contact with electrical machinery
- Contact with electricity-based weapons such as tasers
- Entering switch cabinets, step-down transformers, or electrical cabinets without authorizations
- Failure to enforce Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) safety procedures
Other factors that may play a role in an accident with electricity and the severity of the injuries that ensue include:
- The voltage involved
- The amperage of the electric current involved
- The pathway that the electric charge took in the person’s body (e.g., through the heart, muscles, head, eyes and/or chest, or hand-to-hand)
- How long the victim had contact with the electrical source
- What the health and/or medical condition of the victim was prior to the accident
- Whether the electrical current was direct (DC) or alternating (AC)
What are the symptoms of electric shock?
Electric shock can produce a wide range of symptoms, depending on the severity of the current, the path it takes through the body, and the duration of exposure. Common symptoms include:
1. Physical Symptoms:
- Burns at the entry and exit points of the current
- Muscle spasms or involuntary contractions
- Tingling or numbness in affected areas
- Weakness or fatigue
- Pain at the site of contact
2. Cardiovascular Symptoms:
- Heart damage
- Arryhtmia (Irregular heartbeat) or palpitations
- Chest pain
- Cardiac arrest in severe cases
3. Neurological Symptoms:
- Headaches or dizziness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
4. Respiratory Symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath in severe accidents
5. Delayed or Long-Term Symptoms:
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness that appears hours or days later
- Nerve damage or chronic pain
- Emotional effects such as anxiety or PTSD
Even seemingly mino accidents with electricity can be dangerous, as internal injuries or heart complications may not appear immediately. Prompt medical evaluation is essential after any accident with electricity.
What to do after an electric shock?
If you experience an electric shock, acting quickly and safely is crucial to minimize injury. The first step is to disconnect from the electrical source, ensuring that you or others are not in contact with the current. Seeking immediate medical attention is essential, even if the accident seems minor, as internal injuries, nerve damage, or heart complications can occur. Proper first aid, careful monitoring, and documenting the incident can help protect your health and preserve important evidence for any potential legal claim. Below, we will explain each of these steps in more detail.
Disconnect the source
The first and most important step after an electric shock is to safely disconnect the person from the power source. Never touch someone who is still in contact with electricity directly, as this can put you at risk of being shocked as well. Instead, use a non-conductive object, such as a wooden broom, rubber mat, or insulated tool, to carefully move the electrical source away or break the contact. Ensuring that the source is de-energized or the person is safely separated is critical to preventing further injury.
Once the person is disconnected from the electrical source, it’s important to keep them calm and still while waiting for medical help. Avoid moving them unnecessarily, as sudden movement could worsen injuries, especially if the accident caused muscle contractions or falls. This initial step not only protects the individual from additional harm but also creates a safer environment for providing first aid and allows emergency responders to assess and treat the injuries effectively.
Call for emergency help
After an electric shock, it is crucial to call for emergency help immediately, especially if the person is unresponsive, having difficulty breathing, or shows signs of burns or cardiac distress. Dial 911 or your local emergency number to ensure trained medical personnel can respond as quickly as possible. Prompt notification allows professionals to provide life-saving treatment, including CPR, defibrillation, or advanced care for serious injuries.
While waiting for help to arrive, remain on the line with emergency responders and follow their instructions carefully. Keep the person calm and still, monitor their breathing and pulse, and be prepared to provide basic first aid if necessary. Contacting emergency services right away not only increases the chances of survival but also ensures that the incident is officially documented, which can be important for workplace reporting or legal purposes.
Administer first aid
Administering first aid after an electric shock is critical while waiting for professional medical help to arrive. If the person is unresponsive or not breathing, begin CPR immediately if you are trained, following standard procedures for chest compressions and rescue breaths. For visible burns, cover the affected area with a sterile, non-stick bandage or clean cloth, avoiding creams, ointments, or breaking blisters, which can increase the risk of infection. Keeping the person calm and still helps prevent further injury, especially if the accident caused muscle spasms or falls.
It is also important to monitor the person’s vital signs, such as breathing, pulse, and level of consciousness, and be prepared to relay this information to emergency responders. Even if the accident related injuries seems minor, first aid and ongoing observation are essential because complications like cardiac arrhythmias, nerve damage, or internal injuries may develop later. Prompt and proper first aid not only helps stabilize the individual but also supports medical professionals in providing effective treatment once they arrive.
Seek medical attention
Seeking medical attention after an electric shock is essential, even if the injury initially seems minor. Accidents with electricity can cause internal injuries, nerve damage, or heart rhythm disturbances that may not be immediately apparent. A thorough medical assessment ensures that any hidden complications are identified and treated promptly, reducing the risk of long-term health issues. Visiting a healthcare professional also provides official documentation of your injuries, which can be important for insurance claims or legal actions.
During the medical evaluation, doctors may perform tests such as EKGs, imaging scans, or neurological exams to assess the extent of internal damage. They will also provide guidance on ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and monitoring for delayed symptoms like numbness, dizziness, or chest pain. Seeking prompt medical care not only protects your health but also ensures that your accident is properly recorded and addressed, giving you the best chance for a full recovery.
Document the incident
Documenting the incident after an electric shock is an important step in protecting your health and legal rights. Immediately record the circumstances of the accident, including the location, time, and details of what caused the accident. Take photos of the scene, any faulty equipment, and visible injuries, and collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident occur. Keeping thorough records helps provide clear evidence of what happened and supports both medical treatment and potential insurance or legal claims.
In addition to physical documentation, write down your personal account of the incident, including any symptoms experienced before, during, and after the accident. Retain copies of all medical reports, bills, and correspondence related to the injury. Detailed documentation not only strengthens your case if legal or insurance action is needed but also helps healthcare providers monitor your recovery and manage any delayed complications effectively.
Follow-up care
Follow-up care is a critical part of recovery after an electric shock, even if the initial injury seems minor. It involves attending all scheduled medical appointments, following treatment plans, and adhering to any rehabilitation or therapy recommended by healthcare professionals. Proper follow-up ensures that any complications are detected early and that your recovery progresses safely and effectively.
It is also important to monitor for delayed symptoms like numbness, tingling, dizziness, or chest pain, and to report these promptly to your doctor. Following medical advice for ongoing treatment and rehabilitation not only supports a full recovery but also helps document your condition for insurance purposes or potential legal claims. Consistent follow-up care maximizes your chances of regaining full health while protecting your rights after the incident.
Consult an attorney
Consulting an experienced lawyer after an electric shock can be crucial in protecting your rights and pursuing fair compensation. An attorney can help assess the circumstances of the accident, determine who may be legally responsible, and guide you through the process of filing a claim. Their expertise ensures that all aspects of your case, including medical documentation, witness statements, and evidence of damages, are properly evaluated and preserved.
A lawyer can also negotiate with insurance companies, handle legal procedures, and advise you on the potential value of your claim. Engaging legal counsel early in the process can prevent mistakes, ensure deadlines are met, and improve the likelihood of a favorable outcome. By consulting an attorney, you gain professional guidance that supports both your recovery and your ability to secure appropriate compensation for injuries and losses.
Can a victim experience muscle pain after electric shock?
Yes. Muscle pain after electric shock from involuntary contractions, or from primary injury from the circuit created after coming in contact with electricity, is the most common symptom after an accident with electricity. In some cases when there is significant muscle damage the victim may also experience compartment syndrome.
Compartment syndrome or complex regional pain syndrome occurs when muscle damage causes a person’s limbs to swell to the point that the arteries are so compressed that they cease to supply blood to a person’s limbs, and/or when autonomic nervous system damage results
What does it mean if a victim experiences a headache after electric shock?
If a victim experiences a headache after electric shock, it could mean that a significant injury has occurred. Having a headache could be a sign that the victim is suffering from a neurological or brain injury that requires immediate specialized care and treatment.
This is especially true if the victim is suffering from headaches after their head has made direct contact with the power source. We recommend you seek medical attention if this occurs.
What to do if you get an electric shock?
After an electric shock it’s vital that victims seek and obtain medical treatment as soon as possible. This is advisable even if there are no visible injuries, such as external burns.
It will help to combat, lessen and/or prevent the devastating effects of the severe, life-altering injuries and symptoms described above, and others that may develop over days, weeks, months, and even years.
Additionally, a medical examination will allow trained doctors and health care providers to discover the internal injuries that can result from thermal injury, electroporation, and/or biochemical cascades, caused by electrical current, that would likely not otherwise be apparent. They will look for elevated CK’s (creatine kinase) in the blood labs, as a marker.
Surgery, including skin grafting, may be necessary for:
- Severe burns
- Removal of damaged muscle
- Treating internal injuries
- Amputation of affected appendages and/or limbs
- Repair of secondary fractures
Can I sue if I was injured in an electric shock accident?
If you have been injured in an electric shock accident, you may be entitled to compensation if the injury resulted from someone else’s negligence or unsafe conditions. Common causes include faulty electrical equipment, defective products, unsafe workplaces, or property hazards. Recoverable damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. Seeking immediate medical attention, documenting the incident, and consulting an experienced personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim.
What types of compensation can a lawyer help me recover in an electric shock accident?
If you have been injured in an accident with electricity, a lawyer can help you recover a range of compensation for your losses. This can include medical expenses, both immediate and ongoing, lost wages or reduced earning capacity, and compensation for pain, suffering, or emotional distress. In cases where the injury results in permanent disability or disfigurement, additional damages may be available. In some situations, punitive damages may also be pursued if the responsible party acted with gross negligence or intentional misconduct. Consulting an experienced attorney can ensure your case is properly evaluated and your rights are fully protected.
What happens if someone dies in an electric shock accident?
If someone dies as a result of an electric shock accident, their family may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Compensation can cover funeral and medical expenses, lost income or financial support, and the emotional impact of losing a loved one, including loss of companionship and guidance. In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the death was caused by gross negligence or intentional misconduct. Consulting an experienced personal injury or wrongful death attorney can help families navigate the legal process, identify liable parties, and pursue the compensation they deserve.
What are the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit?
The statute of limitations is the legal time limit for filing a lawsuit, and it varies depending on the type of claim and the state where the accident occurred. For accidents with electricity, which are typically considered personal injury cases, the statute of limitations usually applies as follows:
- Personal injury claims: In most states, you generally have 2 to 3 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
- Wrongful death claims: If the accident with electricity results in death, the statute of limitations is often slightly longer, commonly 2 to 3 years from the date of death, but this can vary by state.
- Exceptions: Some circumstances can extend or shorten the deadline, such as injuries that are not immediately apparent (delayed onset), claims against government entities, or cases involving minors.
Missing the statute of limitations deadline can bar you from recovering compensation, so it’s critical to consult an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after an accident with electricity.
What are the factors that affect a settlement amount?
The settlement amount depends on several key factors. These include the severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and any long-term impact on your ability to work or enjoy life. Pain and suffering, permanent impairment or disfigurement, and the strength of evidence showing the other party’s negligence also play a role. Insurance coverage limits and whether you share any fault in the accident can further affect the settlement. An experienced personal injury attorney can help evaluate these factors, gather supporting evidence, and negotiate effectively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How long does a settlement take?
The time it takes to reach a settlement can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the severity of the injuries. Minor cases may be resolved in a few months, while more serious cases involving extensive medical treatment, permanent disability, or complex liability issues can take a year or longer. The process often involves gathering medical records, accident reports, and witness statements, as well as negotiating with insurance companies. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney can help streamline the process, ensure all damages are properly documented, and increase the likelihood of a fair settlement.
Do I need a lawyer for an electric shock injury case?
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer for an electric shock injury case, working with an experienced personal injury attorney can greatly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation. An attorney can help determine who is legally responsible for the accident and ensure that all aspects of your claim, from documenting injuries to calculating damages, are handled accurately and thoroughly.
A lawyer can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, handle all legal procedures, and make sure important deadlines, such as the statute of limitations, are met. Having professional guidance throughout the process helps protect your rights, maximizes potential compensation, and provides peace of mind during what can be a complex and stressful situation.
How to find the best lawyer for my case?
Finding the right lawyer is crucial to ensure your rights are protected and your claim is handled effectively. Focus on attorneys who specialize in personal injury, particularly cases involving electrical accidents or workplace injuries. Look for a proven track record of successful settlements or verdicts in similar cases, as well as professional recognitions and positive client reviews that demonstrate their expertise and reputation.
In addition to experience, consider communication, availability, and transparency about fees when choosing an attorney. Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay only if you win, but it’s important to clarify details upfront. Scheduling consultations with multiple attorneys can help you find someone you feel confident working with and who has the resources to build a strong case, including access to expert witnesses and medical professionals.
Why choose our lawyers if you were injured in an electric shock accident?
Electric shock injury cases require specialized legal expertise, and at Electrocuted.com, this is our exclusive focus. We specialize in handling lawsuits involving electricity accident related injuries and electrocution deaths caused by defective electronic products, faulty wiring, or inadequate safety controls, giving us a deep understanding of the unique challenges and complexities that many general personal injury attorneys may overlook.
With over 40 years of experience, our team has secured record-breaking settlements and verdicts nationwide, holding manufacturers, utility companies, and power providers accountable for serious, life-changing injuries. We collaborate with a nationwide network of engineers, scientists, and medical experts to investigate every detail of your case, ensuring nothing is missed. From start to finish in your case, we provide personalized guidance, constant communication, and aggressive representation, allowing you to focus on recovery while we fight for the full compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the long-term effects of your injury.
