Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Can Lead to Lawsuits
Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that is produced by burning fuel, including coal, wood, charcoal, natural gas, and fuel oil. It can also give rise to lawsuits in certain situations.
Coined a "silent killer," carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of accidental poisonings in our country.
Injuries that result from carbon monoxide poisoning can often be blamed on a host of parties, including manufacturers, businesses, builders, and landlords. Here's what you need to know:
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
An estimated 1,000 people die each year as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning and thousands of others end up in hospital emergency rooms.
When inhaled, carbon monoxide (CO) enters the blood stream and prevents the flow of oxygen. The symptoms associated with carbon monoxide poisoning are often confused with other illnesses such as the flu or food poisoning, according to the CDC.
Exposure to carbon monoxide can impede coordination, worsen cardiovascular conditions, and produce symptoms like fatigue, headache, weakness, confusion, disorientation, nausea, and dizziness. High levels of exposure can lead to irregularity of the heart, coma, and even death.
Liability for Carbon Monoxide Injuries
Landlords and businesses are legally required to take reasonable steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Standard safety precautions may include performing routine tests, installing carbon monoxide detectors, and complying with building codes and safety standards (for example, when installing or using cooking equipment, gas-powered tools, hot water heaters, and other appliances).
Those injured due to carbon monoxide poisoning often file lawsuits under the legal theories of negligence, strict liability for failure to warn, and strict liability for a defective product.
Depending on the facts of the case, a lawsuit could implicate a number of parties, including manufacturers, businesses, builders, and landlords.
Need More Help?
If you believe you or someone you know suffered carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of the negligence of a business, landlord, or builder, you should seek immediate medical treatment and contact a personal injury attorney to explore potential legal remedies.
Related Resources:
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors State Statutes (National Conference of State Legislatures)
- Top 3 Space Heater Injury Risks (FindLaw's Injured)
- Does Your Homeowner's Insurance Cover Injuries? (FindLaw's Injured)
- After the Fire: Claims for Injuries Caused by Defective Smoke Detectors (FindLaw's KnowledgeBase)
