Nicholas Bliss Killed In Power Line Electrocution Accident In DeKalb County
Wrongful Death - November 20, 2022
Nicholas Bliss Died In Electrocution Accident While Working On Power Lines In Rural DeKalb County
DEKALB COUNTY, ILLINOIS (November 22, 2022) – A utility worker identified as Nicholas Bliss has tragically died in a power line electrocution accident in rural DeKalb County.
DeKalb County officials are saying that the accident took place on Thursday. Nicholas Bliss was working on power lines by Malta Road and Twombly Road when he was electrocuted.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the worker. Despite the best efforts of first responders, Nicholas Bliss died as a result of his injuries.
A full investigation by OSHA remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For DeKalb County Electrocution Accidents
Electrocutions are one of the major hazards that workers face in the United States. In fact, OSHA lists electrocutions as one of the “fatal four” sources of workplace death. According to the United States Department of Labor, “Electricity has long been recognized as a serious workplace hazard. OSHA’s electrical standards are designed to protect employees exposed to dangers such as electric shock, electrocution, fires, and explosions.” There are a number of steps that companies should take to protect their workers from electrical hazards.
- Workers should be trained to identify electrical hazards.
- Workers should be given equipment to protect themselves from electrical hazards.
- Power lines should typically be de-energized before they are worked on.
Depending on the facts of any case, a company separate from a worker’s employer could be liable for an electrocution accident. For example, a power company could face liability for an electrocution accident if they were given an order to de-energize certain power lines and failed to do so. The company that manufactured a boom lift could also be liable for an electrocution. Boom lifts are supposed to come with safety features that prevent them from coming into contact with electrical lines. There are a number of steps that should be taken after any electrocution accident.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- A thorough investigation should be conducted.
- All work orders related to the incident should be reviewed.
It can be difficult to know where to begin after any workplace accident. But it is important for accident victims to know that they do have rights. They have a right to know what happened and they have a right to pursue a civil claim if that is what they choose. However, it is common for power companies to deny all liability for any electrocution accident. This is why it so important that all evidence is properly preserved after any incident.
Investigating A DeKalb County Electrocution Accident
We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Nicholas Bliss. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to OSHA. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other tragedies like this. The number one priority for every company should be the safety of their workers.
Do you need more information about a DeKalb County electrocution accident? Our team of worker’s rights advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an incident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.
