The workers’ compensation insurance program in California provides benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages to victims of workplace injuries. However, under certain circumstances, injured workers might also have grounds to file third-party personal injury lawsuits. If the injury was caused by a party not linked to the same employer, such steps might be appropriate.
A construction worker in another state is suing the city for an electrical shock that caused severe injuries. According to the complaint, the man was working on a roof where a renovation of rain gutters was underway. A high-voltage electrical current went through him and the aluminum downspout that he was handling at that time. The shock threw him off the roof, onto an alley 20 feet down below.
It is alleged that the power line’s placement was negligent. It was not in compliance with the 12.5 feet clearance between buildings and power lines mandated by state laws and the National Electrical Safety Code. Due to the negligent placing of the power line, the plaintiff claims to have suffered serious electrical burns, cranial and facial fractures, brain trauma, blindness in one of his eyes and loss of function in his limbs.
The plaintiff and his wife seek damages exceeding $75,000 to cover future medical expenses, permanent physical damage, and the loss of wages and earning capacity. Any California workers in a similar situation can consult with an attorney who has experience in both workers’ compensation and personal injury law. Legal counsel can assess the viability of a civil lawsuit, and advocate for the injured worker throughout ensuing legal proceedings.