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Causes of Electrocution Accidents in New York’s Public and Private Spaces

One common cause is exposed or ungrounded wiring, generally found in older buildings or during renovations. Property owners who fail to properly maintain or inspect electrical systems create a foreseeable risk of serious injury or death.

Another significant cause is the improper installation of electrical systems or fixtures. Licensed electricians are required to follow the National Electrical Code (NEC), and any deviation can be considered negligence, especially if it leads to an electrocution.

Water intrusion in areas with electrical wiring, such as basements, public restrooms, or around outdoor lighting, also presents a serious hazard. Inadequate insulation or failure to place ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in wet areas heightens the risk. Other causes include:

  • Poorly maintained or damaged extension cords: These are common hazards in homes, workplaces, and construction sites. Frayed insulation, exposed wires, or improper usage can result in electrical arcs or direct contact with live current, which are especially dangerous in wet or high-traffic environments.
  • Defective appliances or machinery: Faulty wiring, broken components, or lack of proper grounding in tools, equipment, or consumer appliances can cause severe electric shocks. Property owners and employers may be held liable if they failed to inspect or repair known defects.
  • Unmarked high-voltage areas: Electrical rooms, transformer boxes, and utility enclosures must have clear signage and restricted access. Failing to warn or secure these areas can expose workers, tenants, or pedestrians to lethal voltages and result in legal liability under New York premises liability laws.
  • Construction or renovation sites lacking adequate safety barriers: Sites undergoing active electrical work must have temporary barriers, warning signs, and lockout/tagout procedures. When these safety measures are missing, the risk of accidental electrocution increases for both authorized personnel and bystanders.
Smoke from electrical wires

Types of Injuries in Electrocution Premises Liability Accidents in NY

The severity of electrocution injuries varies widely depending on voltage exposure, duration of contact, and the victim's physical condition. Common injuries include:

  • Electrical Burns: Internal and external burns are common, especially at entry and exit points. These can lead to permanent disfigurement.
  • Cardiac Arrest: Electrical shock can cause immediate cardiac arrhythmias or full cardiac arrest.
  • Neurological Damage: Victims may suffer from nerve damage, seizures, or long-term cognitive issues.
  • Muscle and Tissue Damage: Deep electrical burns can destroy muscle fibers, potentially requiring amputation.
  • Respiratory Complications: Shock affecting respiratory muscles can lead to asphyxiation or chronic breathing issues.
  • Secondary Injuries: Falls due to shock can cause traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage.

Locations in New York Where Electrocution Premises Liability Accidents are More Frequent

Several locations in New York pose a higher risk for electrocution-related premises liability incidents:

Construction Sites

Electrocution is a leading hazard on construction sites in New York, resulting from exposed live wires, damaged extension cords, temporary power systems, and ungrounded equipment. The constant evolution of construction areas with changing layouts, incomplete structures, and wet conditions can increase the risk of contact with high-voltage sources. Contractors, subcontractors, and site owners may be liable if they fail to implement Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-mandated protection.

Public Parks and Playgrounds

Publicly accessible areas like parks and playgrounds often feature lighting systems, charging stations, and underground electrical wiring. When these systems deteriorate due to age or weather, or are not properly maintained by the municipality, they can expose children and families to serious electrocution risks. If a public agency is responsible, a Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days to preserve the right to sue under New York law.

Subway Platforms and Train Stations

New York’s MTA-operated transportation system runs on high-voltage electricity, particularly along the third rail. Subway platforms with pooling water, malfunctioning escalators, or exposed wiring are extremely dangerous. Transit authorities are held to a high standard of care and must act swiftly when notified of any electrical hazard.

Apartment Complexes and Multi-Family Housing

Residential buildings with outdated electrical infrastructure pose significant risks, particularly in older neighborhoods. Improper grounding, overloaded circuits, or defective wiring behind walls can cause shock injuries or even fatal electrocutions. Landlords and property management companies may be held liable under New York’s Multiple Dwelling Law for failing to maintain safe premises.

Retail Stores and Malls

Electrical hazards in commercial retail environments can come from malfunctioning displays, poorly maintained lighting systems, exposed outlet wiring, or water leaks near electrical sources. Property owners have a duty to regularly inspect and repair electrical systems to protect shoppers and employees.

Schools and Daycares

Children are particularly vulnerable to electrocution, and schools or childcare facilities that neglect to cover outlets, secure extension cords, or maintain electrical devices in classrooms and play areas may face liability. Institutions have a heightened duty of care when children are involved and must follow safety codes strictly.

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Man touching electrical outlets

Potential Liable Parties in Electrocution Injury Claims in New York

Depending on the circumstances, various parties may be held liable:

  • Property Owners: Responsible for inspecting and maintaining safe premises.
  • Property Managers or Tenants: Those in control of day-to-day operations may share liability.
  • Electrical Contractors or Subcontractors: If poor installation or maintenance caused the injury.
  • Equipment Manufacturers: If a defect in an appliance or wiring product caused the shock.
  • Municipal Agencies: If the incident occurred on city-managed property like parks, subway stations, or public schools.

Multiple parties may share liability, especially in complex scenarios involving construction, maintenance, or public infrastructure.

Notice of Claim Requirements in NY When a Government Entity is Liable for an Electrocution Injury

If a government entity (such as the City of New York, NYCHA, or the MTA) is potentially responsible for an electrocution injury, strict procedural rules apply. The injured party or their representative must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident. This document must outline:

  • The claimant's name and address
  • The nature and time of the incident
  • The place where the incident occurred
  • A general description of the injuries

Failure to file this notice on time can result in dismissal of the case, regardless of its merits. After filing, the municipality may schedule a 50-h hearing (similar to a deposition), and the lawsuit must be initiated within one year and 90 days of the incident.

Given the complexity and high stakes of electrocution premises liability claims, particularly those involving governmental defendants, it is essential to work with an experienced personal injury attorney in New York to ensure compliance and build a compelling case for compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue a property owner for electrocution if I was partially at fault?

Yes, under New York’s pure comparative negligence rule, you may still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for your electrocution injuries. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your share of the fault. For instance, if a jury finds you 30% responsible and awards $1,000,000 in damages, your final compensation would be $700,000.

How do I prove a property owner was negligent in an electrocution case?

To establish negligence, you must prove that the property owner had a duty to maintain safe premises, breached that duty, and that the breach directly caused your injury. Evidence often includes:

  • Inspection and maintenance records
  • Surveillance footage
  • Witness testimony
  • Expert evaluations of electrical systems
  • Violations of New York Building Code or OSHA standards

Can landlords be held responsible for electrical injuries in rental units?

Yes. Landlords in New York have a legal obligation to ensure that electrical wiring, outlets, lighting, and appliances provided with the unit are safe and up to code. If a tenant or visitor suffers an electrocution injury due to faulty electrical infrastructure that the landlord knew or should have known about, the landlord may be held civilly liable.

“The Bull” is the Only Choice for Your Premises Liability Lawsuit in NY

Michael S. Lamonsoff, known throughout New York as “The Bull,” has earned his reputation by relentlessly pursuing justice for injury victims, no matter how powerful the defendant. With a deep knowledge of premises liability law and an aggressive courtroom presence, “The Bull” has led his team to some of the most notable victories in New York.

Our firm has successfully litigated against landlords, major corporations, and government agencies. We have built a team of elite attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and experts who know how to break down complex electrical injury cases and hold wrongdoers accountable.

If you or a loved one has suffered electrocution due to negligence, don't settle for less. Turn to the law firm that fearlessly fights for maximum compensation. Reach out to us today to experience the power of having “The Bull” in your corner. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 212-962-1020 or fill out this online contact form.

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