Electrocution Accidents: Caution - Power Lines Overhead

Working around the house is a rewarding part of owning a home. Some people hire out for just about every job, but some are willing to take on a few tasks around the house, whether it be touching up paint or snaking their own toilet. A few people are willing to take on some of the more difficult jobs, such as fixing their roof or patching drywall. Adding a little sweat equity to a home can be fulfilling, but it is important that homeowners are very careful when they undertake jobs usually left to professionals.

One of the most dangerous things for a homeowner to try to fix themselves is anything electrical, whether it be working directly on the electrical panel or any odd job that puts you near the home’s wiring. And nothing is more dangerous than working near the main line that brings power into the home from the city grid.

Common jobs around the house that bring you into potential contact with the electrical systems include:

• Any work near plumbing fixtures where the outlets are not properly updated to be GFCIs
• Roof work or any work near the main power line
• Replacing light fixtures
• Using power tools with frayed or damaged cords

The potential dangers of working near electrical wiring cannot be overstated. On May 18th, 2015 a Michican man was killed and two firefighters were injured when the man, while working on his roof using an electrical lift, came into contact with the main power line.

Electricity is always dangerous, but it is even more dangerous when something was improperly installed. Many household electrical accidents are caused by improper wiring, which is negligence on the part of the contractor who performed the electrical work. If you or someone you love has been electrocuted due to the fault of another, please contact an attorney to discuss your options for getting the compensation you are entitled to.