Carbon monoxide (CO) “is produced by the incomplete burning of various fuels, including coal, wood, charcoal, oil, kerosene, propane, and natural gas,” reports the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Not only can exposure be fatal, it is odorless, making it especially dangerous, notes carbon monoxide injury lawyers.
Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning, and another 20,000 visit the emergency room, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Those most prone to the effects of carbon monoxide are the following, according to the CDC.
- fetuses.
- infants.
- the elderly.
- people with chronic heart problems.
- those respiratory problems.
- or those with anemia.
If harmed by exposure to carbon monoxide, a lawyer can help victims or their families pursue compensation from the party liable for your exposure.
What are the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include the following.
· headache.
· shortness of breath.
· vomiting or nausea.
· dizziness.
· and weakness.
In cases of high-level exposure, victims might lose consciousness and die. Some might experience permanent neurological symptoms such as memory loss.
If you think you have been affected by carbon monoxide poisoning, seek urgent medical attention. Ideally you should have a blood test within a few hours of the exposure to detect CO levels in the blood. This can even prove useful in a compensation claim if you must prove that your health problems are related to CO exposure.
What causes carbon monoxide exposure and who is liable?
Many home appliances give off carbon monoxide.
- stoves.
- gas engines.
- and, central heating systems.
Malfunctioning equipment or poorly ventilated spaces might lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Carelessness such as leaving a vehicle running in a closed garage can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning for those in the garage as well as because the CO can leak into the house.
Liable parties for cases of carbon monoxide poisoning can vary depending on the circumstances. An appliance manufacturer might be liable if the equipment malfunctions or a property owner may be liable if an appliance emitting CO is in an enclosed space that causes CO poisoning to occupants of a building.
Individuals whose negligence – like leaving a car running in a garage – leads to CO poisoning may be liable as well.
Talk to a carbon monoxide lawyer about liability given the circumstances of your case or that of your loved one.
What are my legal rights if I suffer carbon monoxide poisoning?
You may have a legal claim for damages if injured by carbon monoxide poisoning. Families who lost a loved one from CO poisoning may file a claim as well. Of course, this requires proving that another party – such as one listed above – is responsible for the injuries or death. A lawyer can help you establish liability through proper evidence and legal argument.
If you were injured from carbon monoxide poisoning, you may be able to collect compensation for the following damages.
- past and future medical expenses.
- past and future loss of wages.
- loss of earning capacity.
- pain and suffering.
- and, loss of quality of life.
In addition, those who believe they lost a loved one to carbon monoxide poisoning may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit to collect compensation for the following.
- funeral expenses.
- loss of deceased’s income.
- and, noneconomic damages like loss of companionship.
Speak with a Carbon Monoxide Injury Attorney Today
If you have sustained a serious injury or lost a loved one because of carbon monoxide poisoning, you are entitled to seek compensation. Consulting a carbon monoxide lawyer can help you better understand your rights, determine liability for your injuries, and decide if filing a claim is right for you. Call Gacovino, Lake & Associates at 800-550-0000 to set up a consultation with a lawyer.
