Power Lineman Injuries Attorneys in Atlanta

Utility workers, such as power lineman, perform an important service for their community. They install and maintain electricity transmission lines, telephone lines, and fiber optic and television cables. Power linemen are also responsible for the repair of malfunctioning or downed lines and switching out non-working transformers.

Unfortunately, the dangers of being a lineman are great. Even when safety precautions are taken, workers are at significant risk of sustaining mechanical trauma, electrical burns, other physical injuries, and even death. When safety precautions aren’t taken, the results can be even more disastrous.

At Bailey, Javins & Carter, L.C., we understand the risks involved in this profession, but also want to stress that you have rights. If you or someone you love sustained an injury or was killed as a power lineman, you are entitled to just compensation. Contact our office today to schedule your free consultation.

What Hazards Do Power Workers Face?

According to Transmission & Distribution World, anywhere from 30 to 50 power lineman out of every 100,000 lose their lives each year. The tragic thing is that the Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA) believes that the majority of these deaths are preventable.

While just about everyone today relies on a continuous source of power, few people appreciate that linemen and other power workers are on the front line making sure that there are no interruptions. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, some of the risks and hazards that these workers face each day include:

• Falling from heights. Power linemen often work from ladders and bucket trucks but are supposed to use additional safety equipment to prevent falls. The resulting injuries can include traumatic brain injury, sprains and strains, and broken bones.
• Live electrical lines can carry up 345,000 volts of electricity. These workers are at risk for internal injuries, burns, and death from electrocution.
• Environmental stress. Power linemen are on the job around the clock and through some of the most extreme weather conditions. They are often responsible for maintaining power during severe weather and are typically the first onsite after devastating weather event. Some hazards include dehydration, heatstroke, frostbite, hypothermia, and trench foot.
• Fire and explosions. When not properly grounded, electrical equipment can cause explosions and fire. Workers can also suffer burns from gasses, flammable liquids, and combustible dusts.
• Repetitive motion injuries. Electrical workers are tasked with performing some of the same tasks day in and out. It’s not uncommon to see repetitive motion injuries such as sprains and strains.
• Confined space injuries. Electrical work might also need to be performed in tight spaces. If not using the proper precautions, a worker can become trapped and seriously injured.

Avoiding Power Lineman Injuries

Working with electrical lines requires constant vigilance. A slight lapse in attention can result in an accident or injury that can be life-altering for the worker and those nearby. Some of these best practices can help power lineman minimize the potential for these catastrophic injuries:

• Remain alert and aware of your surroundings.When working around live electrical wires, remain on alert to avoid dangerous situations.
• Use all tools as they are designed.Remember your training as well as regulations. Use only the tools that you are familiar with and use them according to established safety practices.
• Work in teams.Performing electrical work solo is never advisable. This should be done in established teams where there is familiarity among the members to ensure communication and safety.
• Slow down.Never rush when performing this type of work. Always put safety first.
• Wear appropriate safety equipment. According to OSHA standards, you should always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as clothing, gloves, shoes, and a helmet.

Who Is Responsible When You’ve Been Hurt on the Job?

While power lineman no doubt understand the dangers involved in their profession and need to follow personal safety standards, employers have an obligation as well. OSHA sets forth strict guidelines for handling supplies and tools and using safety equipment.

Even if your employer has a perfect safety record and you follow all the rules, tragedy can still strike. In most cases, workers’ compensation will cover your damages. This is insurance that your employer is required to carry for workplace injuries. It covers such things as medical care, lost wages, death benefits, and some lump-sum settlements.

Workers’ compensation is no-fault coverage, meaning you can file a claim even if you were at fault in the accident. However, you can’t sue your employer under most circumstances.

You might have an additional means of recovery if a faulty or defective piece of equipment was to blame for your accident. By filing a third-party lawsuit against an equipment manufacturer or designer, you may be able to make a claim for additional damages such as pain and suffering. This is something you should discuss with your attorney.

Call on Our Atlanta Power Lineman Injury and Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one are the victims of a power lineman injury, this is something to take seriously. These injuries can be severe and have lasting consequences. While you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, avoid the temptation to accept a settlement offer or speak with an adjuster before you fully understand your rights.

There is always the possibility that your case may be eligible for additional compensation. The experienced workplace injury attorneys at Bailey, Javins & Carter, L.C. will conduct an independent investigation of your accident and advise you of your options.

One of the services we provide is acting as your advocate with both the insurance company and any providers so that you can focus on reclaiming your life. This is a difficult time, and our goal is to remove some of the burden from your shoulders as you work on recuperating from a traumatic event.

When you have medically stabilized, we’ll help you either get the best settlement possible or give you the option to take the responsible parties to court if it makes the most sense. You won’t pay us anything for our services until we achieve a positive outcome on your case.

Contact our Atlanta office today at 678-981-5370 or reach out to us online to schedule your free consultation.