Can I Sue for Electric Shock at Work in Kansas?
Electric shock at work can be a terrifying and potentially life-altering experience. If you or a loved one has suffered an electric shock injury while on the job in Kansas, you may be wondering about whether you have legal options. The short answer is, potentially, yes. However, the specifics of your case will determine the best course of action. It’s for this reason that the Kansas personal injury attorneys at Patterson Legal Group offer you the information you need on legal action after an electric shock injury at work in Kansas.
Understanding Electric Shock Injuries
Electric shock injuries can range from mild to severe, with potential long-term consequences. These injuries can cause:
If you’ve suffered an electric shock injury, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Not only will this ensure you get the care you need, but this medical documentation will help your case down the line.
Workers’ Compensation in Kansas
For most workplace injuries, including electric shocks, Kansas workers’ compensation is the initial point of contact. This state-mandated insurance program provides benefits to employees injured on the job, regardless of fault. These benefits typically cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages.
However, workers’ compensation is not always enough. If your injuries are severe or if you have permanent disabilities, the benefits may not fully compensate you for your losses. In such cases, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.
When Can You Sue for an Electric Shock Injury?
You may be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit if:
- Your employer intentionally harmed you: This is rare but can occur in cases of workplace bullying or retaliation.
- A third party caused the injury: If someone other than your employer is responsible for the electric shock, such as a defective product manufacturer or negligent contractor, you may have a claim against them.
- Your employer violated safety regulations: If your employer failed to follow safety protocols, resulting in your injury, you may have a claim.
Proving Negligence after an Electric Shock at Work
To win a personal injury lawsuit, you generally need to prove that the responsible party was negligent. This means they owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and their negligence directly caused your injuries.
For instance, in a case involving an electric shock injury, an employee would need to demonstrate that their employer failed to exercise reasonable care in maintaining the equipment or providing adequate training on its safe operation. Alternatively, the employee could establish that the equipment was defective and that the manufacturer was aware or should have been aware of the defect but neglected to issue appropriate warnings.
Damages in an Electric Shock Case
If you successfully sue for an electric shock injury, you may be entitled to financial damages, which can include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium (for a spouse)
- Punitive damages (in rare cases)
The amount of damages you can recover will depend on the severity of your injuries and other factors.
The Importance of Legal Counsel after Receiving an Electric Shock at Work
Navigating the legal system after a serious injury can be overwhelming. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong case.
A lawyer can also handle negotiations with insurance companies, which can be complex and stressful.
Patterson Legal Group: Here for You after an Electric Shock at Work
Here at Patterson Legal Group, we fight to ensure that electric shock injury victims get the compensation they both need and deserve. Our dedicated team of trial lawyers has a proven track record of success in securing settlements for those hurt in accidents in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. We will fight hard for you and be the advocate you deserve.
Get started today with a free case evaluation and consultation by calling us at (888) 687-2400 or filling out an encrypted contact form. You can also connect with our LiveChat representatives. We work under a “no win, no fee” promise, so you won’t pay anything unless we win. Reach out today to begin your free, no obligation consultation.
