Carbon monoxide is a gas that most of us have heard of, but many of us do not stop to think about how the substance can damage our bodies. In fact, CO is often referred to as the “silent killer,” since many people cannot detect its presence in the air. Other gases, for example, have a strong smell or taste, but CO is odorless, tasteless, and colorless. That’s why the victim ignores various symptoms and fails to get help until it’s too late.
If you or someone you know was harmed by high levels of carbon monoxide, you may be entitled to compensation from a lawsuit. But knowing who you go after can be challenging to determine, as numerous entities may be at fault when people are injured or killed from inhaling CO. Victims and their loved ones should contact a Victorville and Hesperia law firm that specializes in carbon monoxide poisoning. That way, you can learn about your rights and legal options from an experienced attorney.
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Where Does Carbon Monoxide Come From?
It’s important to note that CO is not necessarily dangerous in small concentrations. The substance can occur naturally or through man made products, like stoves, fireplaces, and cars. For example, a wildfire that rages out of control can release toxic amounts of CO into the surrounding communities and cause people to get sick. Burning of industrial waste is another cause of carbon monoxide traveling through the air and poisoning people and animals in the area.
However, CO poisoning can only happen in homes and other properties due to improper ventilation of burning of fuel. A defective appliance is a common culprit when people are poisoned by carbon monoxide. Someone can also be killed or injured from CO released by cars if there is insufficient ventilation. But even if these issues are present on the property, a carbon monoxide detector can warn residents, guests, and visitors of a dangerous situation.
To seek compensation for medical treatments, lost income, and other expenses, make sure to discuss your case with a carbon monoxide lawsuit attorney. They can help you figure out who is at fault and what actions are needed to file a toxic gas exposure injury claim.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – What are the Symptoms?
Just a few minutes of inhaling CO in higher concentrations can lead to health conditions that are irreversible. When CO enters your body, it can displace the oxygen that normally flows through your red blood cells. This is why victims experience organ damage and other devastating injuries. It’s essential to go to the emergency if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, which typically results in the following symptoms:
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Feeling dizzy and disoriented
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Persistent headache
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Fainting
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Vomiting
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Nausea
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Muscle weakness and fatigue
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Problems breathing
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Coordination and balance issues
Permanent Health Issues Resulting from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
High levels of CO have a devastating impact on your body, especially your vital organs. Death is one possibility when a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning fails to get medical treatment on time. Other debilitating conditions you may have for the rest of your life include:
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Damage to your heart
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Sleep disorders
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Chronic headaches
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Cognitive impairments (brain damage)
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Permanent damage of lung tissues
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Coma
If you think about it, just one of these conditions is difficult for anyone to live with, but some people will end up with multiple types of injuries from one incident of inhaling too much carbon monoxide. Many people are impaired in their ability to perform basic tasks and may need to give up a career they worked hard to establish.
These are some of the considerations that motivate us when we set out to fight for justice on behalf of an injury victim or their family members. For more information on filing a lawsuit, please give us a call.
What is the Time Limit to Sue for CO Poisoning?
Multiple parties may be to blame when someone is injured by inhaling excessive amounts of carbon monoxide. Many incidents are due to apartment leasing companies and landlords failing to provide a safe living environment. Others experience carbon monoxide poisoning because of defects with a heating system or fuel burning appliance. As a victim of another party’s negligent conduct, you must file a personal injury lawsuit within 2 years of the incident / injury. Alternatively, family members seeking wrongful death compensation for the loss of a loved one have 2 years from the date of death to file a lawsuit.
If you are past the 2-year statute of limitations, there is little to no chance that the courts will grant you an extension. That means you cannot sue the liable party for monetary damages such as pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages.
We are Here to Help, 24/7
Are you searching for a lawyer that’s experienced in carbon monoxide poisoning claims in Victorville or Hesperia? In that case, please reach out to us at your earliest convenience. Out legal team has been fighting for injury victims in San Bernardino County for many years, and we understand the unique challenges that come with these lawsuits.
Legal services should not be restricted based on one’s ability to pay a retainer. That’s why our law firm takes all cases on contingency and waits until your settlement is recovered before we deduct legal fees. We also operate under the Zero Fee Guarantee, so you won’t receive any bills from us if we do not win your case.
Please give us a call here at Normandie Law Firm and schedule a free case review if you or someone you know was harmed by toxic levels of carbon monoxide.
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