Understanding The Common Electrocution Injuries
Electrocution injuries are injuries caused due to electric current. Electric currents cause a wide range of injuries, ranging from mild to severe depending on the voltage. Generally, higher voltage currents result in a much more severe injury than a low voltage current.
You may experience an electric injury while pressing a button in an elevator or any public property. Most people do not know that they can be compensated for the injury they face by the law. Philadelphia, PA personal injury attorneys, can help understand the vital aspects of personal injury laws and figure out if the injury was caused due to someone else’s negligence. If yes, the lawyer will also guide you on the legal proceedings for prosperous and fair compensation.
Common electrocution injuries:
- Electric shock:
A voltage of 50 volts or more applied between two body parts leads to current flow. This flowing current can block the electrical signals between the brain and the muscles. The effects of electric shock include:
- Cardiac arrest (complete block of heart beating).
- Respiratory arrest (blocks breathing completely).
- Muscle spasms.
The most accurate effect of an electric shock is determined by the size of the voltage, the body part involved, and the duration of current flow.
- Electric burn:
An electric current flowing through the human body results in heating the tissues and surrounding structures. This leads to deep burns that may require significant surgery and may result in complete paralysis. Electric burns are common in the case of high voltage electric currents. However, electric burns may also result from low voltages of electric current passing through the body for more than a few fractions of seconds.
- Loss of motor control:
A very intense electric current can lead to painful muscle spasms. The muscle spasm can be so strong that it could dislocate the joint or break bones. This can lead to loss of motor control. Because of this, a victim cannot let go or escape the electric shock. A person working at a heightened platform may fall or be thrown into the machines or objects kept nearby.
- Thermal burns:
Thermal burns are caused when a person is very close to a hot electrical surface or near an electric explosion. Overloaded, incorrectly maintained can cause the electrical equipment to get very hot, and some electrical machines get hot during their normal functioning. This can lead to an explosion.
A low voltage battery can generate a spark strong enough to cause a fire or explosion. Seek immediate medical assistance for the injury. The medical reports by the doctor will also serve as evidence to support your claim and make it stronger.
