Experienced New Hampshire & Massachusetts Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Attorneys
Have you lost a loved one to carbon monoxide poisoning? Our Salem personal injury attorneys can help.
In the United States alone, more than 100,000 people are injured and 400 die every year due to carbon monoxide poisoning (CDC). Despite its massive impact, this silent killer can be difficult or even impossible to detect. We go over the dangers of carbon monoxide and what to do after you or a loved one were exposed below.
What Is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a flammable but nearly odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas that can cause injury and death when inhaled. While carbon monoxide is naturally occurring and necessary for the combustion of fuel, it can quickly lead to fatal air poisoning in large amounts or when not adequately vented.
Potential Sources of Carbon Monoxide
According to the EPA, the top three sources of carbon monoxide exposure are gas stoves, gasoline-powered generators, and automobile exhaust. However, CO is also produced by burning firewood, grilling with charcoal, and even smoking a cigarette.
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Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Exposure
When inhaled, carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin and replaces oxygen in the blood. This begins to deprive critical organs of oxygen, including the heart, brain, and lungs. Symptoms of low-level exposure according to Hopkins Medicine can include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fast heart rate
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness
- Hearing loss
- Blurred vision
Early on, these symptoms may mimic other health conditions, like migraines or the flu. However, the following symptoms can occur if exposure continues:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Respiratory failure
- Cardiac arrest
- Death
What to Do If You or a Loved One Are Exposed
If you or a family member are experiencing any symptoms related to carbon monoxide exposure, it’s important to act quickly. This is especially true if multiple individuals in the same household are experiencing similar symptoms, since this more likely indicates exposure versus a different illness.
Here are some steps to take right away:
- Get fresh air as soon as possible. Even if this is just opening a window, it’s critical to get fresh air as quickly as you can. Then, you can take steps to move outside if it’s safe to do so.
- Help others who may also be exposed. Once you are able to get fresh air, you can help others around you do the same.
- Call 911. Next, call emergency services and wait for help outside or near an open window. Do not re-enter until you are cleared to do so.
When you arrive at the hospital, your blood will likely be tested to assess the amount of carbon monoxide you were exposed to. You may also need to be treated with oxygen or hyperbaric therapy for several hours before symptoms subside.
Can I Sue for Injury or Wrongful Death from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
If you were injured or you lost a loved one due to negligent carbon monoxide exposure, you may be entitled to financial compensation for things like hospital bills, lost wages, and funeral expenses. This is generally paid by the insurance company of the at-fault party. For example, if an HVAC provider fails to install a gas furnace correctly, and you are exposed to CO as a result, they could be responsible for the financial impact of their carelessness.
Click here to read about how Attorney Robert Mazow is leading the way in a similar carbon monoxide lawsuit (link to the new CO practice area page) in Marblehead and helping families get the restitution they deserve.
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At Mazow | McCullough, PC, we’ve represented families after carbon monoxide poisoning and can do the same for you. Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation to discuss your case in detail by calling (978) 744-8000 or toll-free at (855) 693-9084.
