Q: Do I have a lawsuit against the electric company?

I was putting a metal roof on our porch today and my ladder slid, when I caught myself my arm touched a service drop that runs to the meter loop, when it done so I was electrocuted causing a small burn on my arm and numbness and tingling in my hand and arm, when I looked at it I noticed it was caused because the electric company didn't put an insulated connector on one of the hot wires leaving it exposed. Wondering if I have a case? Also pretty sure it's a Missouri code and OSHA regulation to have insulated connectors on both.

1 Lawyer Answer

A: While this is a good question, it's important to follow up with an attorney in person. That attorney can discuss with you the importance of negligence, and your likelihood to prevail in a suit.

One thing that is considered when your case is evaluated is the possibility that you might also be at fault. You may feel insulted at the suggestion that you had anything to do with this injury, and that may be an appropriate response. But, when you are discussing this with your attorney, you need to be aware that he is just dispassionately evaluating what will be brought before judge and, possibly, jury. If he doesn't ask you now, it'll be embarrassing if the answer isn't what you expect.

You brought up Missouri Code and OSHA regulations. These both may play into the what is called "duty." But "duty" is just one element of a negligence claim, and it is important to consider the whole picture. Another thing to have with you when you go to meet with your attorney is your medical bills. Know when you visited your doctor, how much it cost, and whether the doctor stated any of your injuries seemed to be pre-existing.

What you described was very detailed, and that is important. Being able to communicate clearly with your lawyer is very helpful. But the details you gave are not enough to determine whether you would prevail in a courtroom battle.

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