Electric shock injuries are a serious and often overlooked health concern that can have significant, long-lasting effects on the body. These injuries occur when an individual comes into contact with an electrical current, whether from a power source, faulty wiring, or even lightning.

The severity of an electric shock injury can range from mild to fatal, depending on factors such as the voltage of the current, the pathway it takes through the body, and the duration of exposure. When electric shock passes through the body, it can cause all kinds of serious issues, including neurological and orthopedic injuries and even brain injury. One of the biggest issues is burnt nerve endings.

If the injury was caused by some type of negligence, a lawyer specializing in electric shock injury can help pursue legal action against those liable.

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, our law firm can help you get financial compensation for all your losses. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we can help you assess your claim and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 833-997-1774 for a free consultation.

What Are Different Types of Electric Shock Injuries?

The impact of an electric shock can vary depending on the circumstances. There are three primary types of electric shock injuries:

Low-voltage electric shocks (less than 500 volts) are common in household accidents and typically cause minor burns or a brief pain sensation. While they are generally less severe than high-voltage shocks, they can still cause significant harm, especially if they result in a fall or an injury from muscle contraction.

High-voltage electric shocks (more than 500 volts), more commonly associated with industrial accidents, electrical storms, or contact with high-power equipment, can cause severe damage to the body. The injuries associated with high-voltage shocks are much more serious and can be life-threatening.

Electrical burns can occur when electricity flows through the body or an external surface such as the skin. These burns can result in extensive tissue damage, deep scarring, and long-term complications.

What Are the Immediate Effects of Electric Shock?

The immediate effects of an electric shock injury can vary widely. They can include:

  • Pain and muscle contractions: Electric shocks often cause involuntary muscle contractions, leading to intense pain. Muscle contractions may make it difficult for the person to let go of the electrical source, prolonging the injury.
  • Burns: Electric shocks can cause burns at the current’s entry and exit points. These burns may be external, visible on the skin, or internal, affecting deeper tissues and organs.
  • Cardiac arrest or arrhythmia: One of the most dangerous side effects of an electric shock is its effect on the heart. Electricity can disrupt the normal rhythm of the heart, causing irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia), which may lead to cardiac arrest if not promptly treated. This is one of the leading causes of death from electric shock injuries.
  • Respiratory arrest: In some cases, an electric shock can interfere with the body’s ability to breathe, either by causing paralysis of the respiratory muscles or disrupting the signals from the brain to the lungs. This can result in breathing difficulties or complete respiratory failure.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Electric Shock Injuries?

While the immediate effects of an electric shock are often severe, the long-term consequences can also be debilitating. Some individuals who survive an electric shock may experience lasting physical and psychological effects, including:

  • Nerve damage: Electricity can cause damage to the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the limbs. In severe cases, nerve damage can result in permanent disability.
  • Cognitive impairments: There is evidence that electric shocks can cause cognitive difficulties, including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and issues with processing information. This is particularly true for individuals who experience a severe shock that affects the brain or central nervous system.
  • Chronic pain: Even after the initial healing period, many individuals suffer from persistent pain, including muscle pain, headaches, and joint pain. This condition, often referred to as “electric shock syndrome” or “post-electric shock syndrome,” can be long-lasting and difficult to manage.
  • Psychological effects: In addition to physical injuries, survivors of electric shock accidents often experience psychological distress. This can include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The trauma of the event, combined with the ongoing physical challenges, can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life.
  • Organ damage: An electric shock may damage the internal organs, particularly the kidneys and liver. When the body experiences a severe shock, the heart, muscles, and other tissues may release harmful substances into the bloodstream, which can cause organ failure if not treated promptly.
  • Vision and hearing impairment: Depending on the path of the electrical current, electric shocks can also cause damage to the eyes and ears, resulting in vision problems or hearing loss. These injuries may range from temporary disturbances to permanent sensory loss.

How Can Your Personal Injury Law Firm Help?

If you’ve suffered an electric shock injury due to someone else’s negligence, the first step is to seek medical treatment. Once your immediate needs are addressed, contact an attorney specializing in personal injury cases to discuss your options.

At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we have decades of experience handling personal injury claims. We understand how to navigate the legal process and work with you to maximize the value of your case. Call us at 833-997-1774 to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.