Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by tanya

Accidents Caused by Faulty Wiring

 

When to Make a Personal Injury Claim

 

Accidents caused by faulty wiring can happen in homes, workplaces, and public spaces. They pose a serious health risk in terms of the type of injuries which can result. They may be caused by poor maintenance, substandard electrical work, or negligence in following safety regulations.

If you or someone you know has suffered an injury due to faulty wiring and the accident was not your fault, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim.

First Personal Injury works with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can assess if you have a valid claim.

 

Common Accidents Caused by Faulty Wiring

Electrical wiring is integral to modern living whether in a public or private space. However, when it’s installed or maintained incorrectly, it can cause serious hazards. Some of the most common accidents resulting from faulty wiring include:

 

Electrical Fires

Faulty wiring can cause wires to overheat, spark, and ignite nearby materials. This is one of the leading causes of house fires and commercial property fires. Electrical fires can start behind walls, in ceilings, or inside appliances.

 

Electric Shocks

When wires are exposed or electrical systems aren’t properly grounded, touching a faulty socket, switch, or appliance can result in an electric shock. The severity of these shocks can range from minor discomfort to far more serious injuries.

 

Explosions

In extreme cases, faulty wiring can cause explosions, particularly if it interacts with flammable substances. Such incidents can occur in industrial settings, workshops, or public spaces which have not been properly maintained.

 

Power Outages and Electrical Failures

Electrical failures due to faulty wiring can also create indirect hazards. Forr example, causing lighting systems to fail in stairwells or emergency alarms to stop working during a fire.

 

Types of Injuries Caused by Faulty Wiring

Accidents involving faulty wiring can lead to a wide range of injuries. Here are some of the most common:

 

Burns

Electrical burns can occur externally on the skin or internally in organs if the electric current travels through the body. Severe burns may require skin grafts and reconstructive surgery and can result in permanent scarring.

 

Cardiac Arrest

A strong electric shock can interfere with the heart’s natural rhythm, potentially causing a cardiac arrest. Immediate medical attention is crucial in such cases, and long-term heart issues may result from such an accident.

 

Muscle and Nerve Damage

Electric shocks can damage nerves and muscles, leading to numbness, weakness, or long-term mobility issues.

 

Fractures and Secondary Injuries

When someone receives an electric shock, their body may involuntarily jerk or spasm, causing falls from ladders, stairs, or other heights. These falls may cause fractures, concussions, or other serious injuries.

 

When The Accident Was Not Your Fault

If you’ve suffered an injury due to faulty wiring through no fault of yours, you may be eligible to start a personal injury claim. However, there are certain factors to consider.

Responsibility typically falls on whoever was responsible for the installation, maintenance, or safety inspection of the electrical system. This might include:

 

• A landlord, if the accident occurred in a rented home.
• An employer, if the accident happened at your workplace.
• A business owner or public authority, if the accident took place in a shop, office, or public building.
• An electrical contractor or maintenance company, if their substandard work caused the hazard.

 

Proving Negligence

To make a personal injury claim, you’ll need to show that:

 

• A duty of care was owed to you.
• That duty was breached due to negligence (for example, failing to fix faulty wiring or carry out proper safety checks).
• Your injuries were directly caused by this breach.

 

Typically have three years from the date of the accident or from when you first became aware of your injury to make a claim. However, different rules may apply for minors or individuals who lack mental capacity.

 

Steps to Take If You’ve Been Injured

If you’ve experienced an accident caused by faulty wiring, it’s important to take the following steps:

 

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
• Report the incident to the property owner, employer, or relevant authority.
• Document the scene if it’s safe to do so — take photos of the faulty wiring, location, and any visible injuries.
• Collect witness details if anyone saw the accident.
• Keep records of medical treatments, expenses, and any time taken off work.

 

It is essential to consult with a personal injury lawyer who is experienced in these types of claims for compensation. At First Personal Injury, we work with a team of lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who will assess your case.

Our expert team at First Personal Injury will guide you through the claims process to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us now at 0333 358 2345 or complete our online contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation.