Electrocution compensation cases

Electrocution compensation cases

For getting your life back on track

Electrocution injuries can have serious consequences, including lasting effects on your day-to-day activities, ability to work and your overall quality of life. Beyond the immediate physical consequences, being electrocuted can also lead to emotional and trauma.

If you’ve sustained an electrocution injury resulting from the negligence or deliberate actions of another person or organisation, you may have grounds to pursue electrical injury compensation to address both your physical suffering and any financial setbacks you've encountered.

Making a compensation claim after an electrocution incident can be stressful, but our team of dedicated personal injury solicitors is here to make the process easier for you. At Switalskis, we understand the seriousness of your situation. With its expertise in handling electrocution compensation claims, our personal injury team is prepared to guide you through the process of securing the compensation you deserve. We’ll carry out the majority of the legal work and make sure you're well-informed throughout the entire process, to make sure the process is as simple as it can be.

Regardless of whether your electrocution happened in an accident, at your workplace or under different circumstances, we're here to assist you in claiming compensation. Working with us means you’ll receive support from a dedicated team.

To discover how Switalskis can assist with your case, don't hesitate to contact us today at 0800 138 0458 or through our website .

To get started, give us a call today on 0800 1380 458, or get in touch with us through our website to find out more about how we can help.

How Switalskis can help

Beginning a compensation claim can feel overwhelming, particularly when dealing with the aftermath of an injury. At Switalskis, our dedicated team of solicitors is here to ease this burden by handling the bulk of the legal work. We prioritise communication and we’ll make sure you understand the progress we’re making at every step of the process.

We understand that electrical injuries vary in nature and can have a wide range of effects on your life. Our solicitors are here to support you in claiming the compensation you deserve. When you contact us, we'll discuss the circumstances of your case and how your injury has affected you and your life. This initial, no-obligation consultation allows us to assess the viability of your claim and provide you with a clear explanation of the claims process.

We’ll talk you through each stage of the process ahead of time so you can prepare for what to expect. We’re dedicated to simplifying complex legal steps and using straightforward terms so you fully understand the process, so that you can focus on your recovery with minimal stress.

We pride ourselves on our approach. We recognise that everyone deals with an injury differently, and we’re here to help you navigate the path forward. Our solicitors will build a close working relationship with you, providing guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.

Read what our clients had to say about the help they received from Switalskis

How negligence can lead to electrocution injuries

Many electrocutions happen because of the negligence or oversight of people and organisations who are responsible for electrical safety. Here are some examples of electrocution injury cases that we typically handle:

  • Unsafe work environments: employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment for their employees. Negligence in electrical safety can include inadequate electrical maintenance, faulty equipment or failure to implement safety protocols.
  • Construction site accidents: construction sites may expose workers to electrical hazards. Accidents can happen when proper safety measures are not put in place, sites are not appropriately maintained or when workers are not properly trained and supervised to handle electrical equipment.
  • Faulty electrical products: manufacturers and distributors of electrical products have a duty to make sure their products are safe for consumer use.
  • Inadequate electrical installations: electricians and contractors are responsible for making sure electrical installations in homes and buildings are safe.
  • Public places and facilities: public bodies, shops and operators of other areas visited by the public have a duty to ensure that maintaining electrical systems in public places such as shopping centres, restaurants and recreational facilities is done appropriately and correctly.

People and organisations who are responsible for electrical safety should take whatever measures are necessary to prevent electrocution injuries, including meeting all the relevant legal standards.

What injuries can result from electrocution?

Electrocution can lead to a wide range of injuries, which vary from relatively minor to life-altering in severity. The following are examples of injuries for which we’ve made compensation claims on behalf of our clients:

Electrical burns

The most immediate and visible injury from electrocution is often an electrical burn. These burns can vary in severity, from minor burns to deep tissue damage. The extent of the burn injury can depend on factors such as the voltage of the electrical current and the duration of exposure, but it’s possible to claim compensation for even a minor injury.

Cardiac injuries

Electrocution can disrupt the normal rhythm of the heart, leading to cardiac injuries. These can include arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), heart muscle damage and cardiac arrest in severe cases.

Neurological injuries

Electrical shocks can affect the nervous system and lead to neurological injuries, which may manifest as nerve damage, muscle weakness or paralysis, depending on the severity of the shock.

Respiratory issues

Severe electrocution can impact the respiratory system, leading to breathing difficulties. The affected person may need and long-term treatment.

Psychological trauma

Electrocution incidents can be traumatic and cause long-lasting effects such as (PTSD), anxiety or depression.

Secondary injuries

In some cases, electrocution can lead to secondary injuries if a person falls or is thrown as a result of the shock. Common secondary injuries include fractures, head injuries and soft tissue injuries.

Death

Some electrocution accidents result in fatalities, especially when high voltage is involved or when immediate medical attention is not available.

Even if you don’t see your injury listed above, get in touch with us to discuss your case.

Making an electrocution injury compensation claim

Handling an electrocution compensation claim can be challenging but our team is here to guide you through each step of the process, keeping you informed and supported.

Here's a breakdown of how the electrocution compensation claims process typically unfolds:

Step 1: Initial consultation

Your claim begins when you reach out to our experienced personal injury team. During this initial consultation, we'll take the time to understand the specifics of your electrocution incident. Our goal is to provide you with valuable insights into what you can expect from your claim.

Step 2: Establishing your claim

We'll begin gathering evidence to support your case. This may include medical records detailing your injuries, incident reports, witness information and any communications with people or organisations involved in the incident. If your claim includes financial setbacks, we'll also need relevant evidence and information to assist with proving these and claiming them back.

Step 3: Notifying the defendant

We’ll officially notify the party we believe is at fault and their insurance provider about your compensation claim. This is called a letter of claim, and they’ll usually have four months to respond. They must decide whether to accept liability or not.

Step 4: Negotiation

In many cases, the defendant will acknowledge their responsibility for your injuries, allowing us to negotiate for compensation efficiently and effectively. If the defendant disputes your claim, we’ll escalate the matter to court.

Step 5: Court proceedings (where necessary)

Most electrocution compensation claims are resolved through negotiations with an out-of-court settlement, but some cases do need court involvement. Should your claim go to court, you can rely on our legal expertise to present your case effectively and champion your rights.

Step 6: Settlement and compensation

Upon successfully securing compensation for your electrocution injuries, our team will make sure that the responsible party meets their obligation to pay.

What are the time limits for making an electrocution compensation claim?

For most personal injury claims, including those arising from electrocution incidents, the time limit for initiating a claim is generally three years from the date of the incident that caused the injury.

However, the time limit may commence from the date you became aware of the injury's consequences; for example, if symptoms of your injury took time to develop and become apparent. This makes sure you have a fair opportunity to seek compensation, even if the full extent of your injuries was not immediately evident.

There are some special considerations that can affect this time limit:

  • Children: when electrocution incidents involve children, the time limits for claims differ. A claim on behalf of a child can be started at any time before the child's 18th birthday. Following their 18th birthday, the child has until they turn 21 to bring their claim on their own behalf.
  • Mental Capacity: in situations where you’re acting on behalf of someone who lacks the mental capacity to make a claim independently, the standard time constraints may not apply.
  • Fatal cases: if you’re claiming on behalf of a family member who passed away due to an incident caused by electrocution, the claim must be made within three years of the date of death, or the date of knowledge that the accident caused their death.

It's important to note that pursuing an electrocution compensation claim takes time and can present various challenges. By getting in touch with us and beginning your claim as soon as possible, you have the best chances of making a successful claim.

What will electrocution injury compensation cover? How much compensation can I claim?

Here's a breakdown of what electrocution compensation may cover and the factors that influence the amount you can claim:

  • General damages address the physical and emotional trauma resulting from your electrocution injury. The severity of your injury impacts the compensation you may be entitled to in this category.
  • Special damages cover the financial setbacks you have encountered as a result of your injury. This category can include various expenses and losses, such as medical bills, lost wages and support costs.

It's essential to understand that providing a precise estimate of the compensation you can claim is a complex process. Your unique circumstances and the specific details of your electrocution injury will play a significant role in determining your final compensation amount.

FAQs about Electrocution compensation cases

Will I have to go to court?

Most electrocution compensation cases are settled out of court, meaning you are unlikely to need to attend a court hearing. Instead of going through court, we will negotiate with the responsible party’s insurance company to agree on a fair settlement.

However, if liability is disputed or an agreement cannot be reached, then we may issue court proceedings. Even then, most cases settle before reaching a trial, as both parties often prefer to avoid the costs and time associated with court hearings.

If your case does proceed to court, we are on hand to guide you through the process, represent your interests, and ensure you are well-prepared. You may need to provide evidence, such as medical reports or witness statements, to support your claim.

How does a no win, no fee electrocution compensation claim work?

A no win, no fee agreement, also known as a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), allows you to pursue an electrocution injury compensation claim without the financial risk of paying legal fees upfront. Here's how it works:

No upfront costs: you do not have to pay any legal fees to your solicitor when starting your claim. This makes it accessible to anyone, regardless of their financial situation.

If you win: if your claim is successful, a portion of your compensation will go towards covering your solicitor’s fees.

If you lose: if your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay your solicitor’s legal fees. Most no win, no fee agreements include insurance (called After the Event insurance) to cover other costs, such as court fees or expert witness expenses.

What is covered: your solicitor will handle all aspects of your claim, including investigating liability, gathering evidence, negotiating with the other party, and representing you in court if necessary.

Can I claim compensation if the electrocution occurred at work?

Yes, you can claim compensation if you were electrocuted at work, provided the incident occurred due to someone else’s negligence or a breach of workplace safety regulations. Employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to provide a safe working environment. If they fail in this duty and you suffer an injury, you may be entitled to compensation.

In most cases, compensation will be paid by your employer’s liability insurance, not your employer directly. Additionally, the law protects you from being unfairly treated or dismissed for making a legitimate claim.

What evidence is needed to support an electrocution compensation claim?

To successfully pursue an electrocution compensation claim, you need to provide evidence that demonstrates the following:

Liability: proof that someone else’s negligence or breach of duty caused the electrocution.

Injury and impact: documentation of the injuries you sustained and how they have affected your life.

Financial losses: evidence of any monetary losses resulting from the injury.

Key types of evidence for electrocution claims include:

Accident evidence, such as photographs of the accident scene or witness statements

Medical evidence, such as reports from your GP or the hospital detailing your injuries caused by the electrocution

Financial records to demonstrate proof of losses, such as payslips for lost wages or care costs

Safety or maintenance records, such as a workplace risk assessment which demonstrates evidence of safety failures

Collecting and organising this evidence strengthens your claim and ensures you are well-prepared to pursue fair compensation. We can assist you in gathering and presenting this evidence effectively.

How long does it take to resolve an electrocution compensation claim?

The time it takes to resolve an electrocution compensation claim depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether liability is disputed.

In straightforward cases where liability is admitted, and injuries are minor, a claim may be resolved within 6 to 12 months. However, if the case is more complex - such as when liability is contested, multiple parties are involved, or the injuries require prolonged medical assessment - resolution can take 12 to 24 months or longer.

Factors that may affect the timeline include:

Establishing liability: if the responsible party disputes liability, the process may involve additional investigations and negotiations, which can extend the timeframe.

Assessing medical impact: Severe injuries often require long-term treatment or rehabilitation. An electrocution claim may take longer if medical experts need time to assess the full impact of the injuries before valuing compensation.

Court proceedings: while most claims settle out of court, cases that proceed to trial can take significantly longer, potentially two years or longer.

Our solicitors will provide an estimated timeline based on your specific circumstances and will work to resolve the claim as efficiently as possible while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Contact us today and let's start your journey towards recovery together. Call us today on 0800 1380 458, or get in touch via our form.

Our electrocution compensation specialists

Photo of Rosie Dodds
Rosie DoddsAssociate Solicitor
Katrina ElseySenior Associate Litigation Executive
Photo of Stephanie Veysey
Stephanie VeyseySenior Associate Solicitor
Alex EdwardsSolicitor
Photo of Louise Moore
Louise MoorePortal Co-ordinator
View more

How are electrocution compensation claims funded?

You may be concerned about the financial implications and the costs associated with seeking legal assistance while dealing with your injury, but you should not be put off from making a claim. Switalskis is committed to providing accessible legal support.

We’re able to operate on a no win, no fee basis for the majority of our personal injury claims, including electrocution cases. This arrangement means that if the claim is unsuccessful, you won’t need to pay our fees. When you claim with us, you can pursue your claim without concerns about upfront costs.

If your claim is successful, a pre-agreed portion of the final compensation award will be used as a contribution towards our legal costs. We’ll discuss funding options before we begin working on your case, and provide transparency and clarity regarding legal fees.

We understand that each client's financial situation is unique, and you may have concerns about managing the costs of pursuing a legal claim, but we are here to help ease these concerns and talk you through all the options that may be available to you.

Our primary goal is to secure the compensation you deserve for the challenges you've faced due to your electrocution injury. By offering a no win, no fee arrangement, we aim to make the legal process more accessible, allowing you to focus on your recovery and wellbeing.

What to remember when making an electrocution injury compensation claim

Your wellbeing and safety should always be your top priorities, especially when you've suffered an electrocution injury. Seeking immediate medical attention is vital, even if you believe your injuries are minor. The effects of electrocution can be deceptive, and the consequences may not become apparent until later, which is why urgent medical attention is essential.

If you've sustained an electrocution injury due to an accident, there are several steps you should take to help your chances pursuing a successful claim for compensation:

  • Seek medical attention: seeking medical care not only makes sure that your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated but also provides essential medical evidence for your compensation claim. Medical records are compelling evidence and help to confirm the nature and extent of your injuries.
  • Report the accident: whether your injury happened at work or in a public area, it's important to report the incident to the relevant authorities or management. By doing so, you create an official record of the accident and can help prevent similar accidents from happening to others in the future.
  • Document the scene: if it's safe to do so, try to take clear photographs of the accident scene, including any factors that contributed to your electrocution injury. These photographs can serve as valuable evidence to support your compensation claim.

Seeking legal assistance is not just about pursuing financial compensation; it's also a vital step in securing the support and resources you need to aid your recovery. At Switalskis, we understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to provide compassionate guidance and legal expertise throughout the claims process.

Why Switalskis?

When you're seeking compensation for any type of injury, it's essential to have a legal team that you can trust to guide you through the process. At Switalskis, we're dedicated to providing efficient and compassionate support to help you secure the compensation and support you deserve.

Our solicitors are experts in personal injury law. We have a deep understanding of the complexities involved in these claims and can use our knowledge to your advantage.

Clarity in complexity

Personal injury compensation claims can seem overwhelming, but we believe in simplifying the process for you. We’re committed to breaking down legal terms into straightforward language, making sure you understand every step of your claim. We're here to answer questions, address your concerns and provide you with the clarity you need.

Empathy at every step

We understand that dealing with an electrocution injury is not just a legal matter; it can be an emotional and personal journey. We're here to listen to your concerns and provide you with tailored advice that aligns with your circumstances. At Switalskis, you're not just a client; you're a person navigating a challenging period of your life, and we're here to offer you the legal and emotional support you need.

Expertise you can trust

With Switalskis, you benefit from our years of experience and consistent track record in handling a wide range of personal injury claims. We have a strong history of achieving successful outcomes for our clients, so you can have faith that we’ll do whatever we can to help you.

Championing your rights

Your rights are our priority. We’re dedicated to upholding your rights and making sure that your voice is heard throughout the claims process. Our team will accompany you through every phase of your claim, providing you with the knowledge and support you need to make informed decisions.

What are the types of personal injury claims?

Personal injury claims come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own set of rules, challenges and considerations. At Switalskis, we've got the expertise to handle a wide range of personal injury claims. Here's a quick rundown of the various types of personal injury claims we can help you with:

Find out how Switalskis can help you

Contact the personal injury team at Switalskis today to get your electrocution injury claim started. Call us on 0800 1380 458 or get in touch with us through our website.

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