When Can You Sue for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Sometimes the biggest dangers to our health are the things we can’t see–each year in the U.S., there are hundreds of carbon monoxide-related deaths. However, even if a person doesn’t die from exposure to this harmful gas, they can still suffer serious injuries and complications, sometimes for the rest of their lives.

Most of these incidents happen when an individual is exposed to the gas in a confined area, such as a closed garage with a running vehicle or the inside of an RV if the exhaust somehow makes its way into the cabin. These incidents are certainly scary, but many victims may find themselves wondering whether or not another party was responsible for their carbon monoxide exposure and poisoning. In other words, when are you able to file a carbon monoxide poisoning claim, and against whom? Let’s take a closer look:

Is it Possible to File a Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Claim?

There are a few factors to be considered, but the short answer is yes, you can file suit for carbon monoxide poisoning. That being said, in order to build a successful claim, you must be able to prove that another person or entity was liable for the incident.

In the event that your carbon monoxide poisoning was caused by a defective product, such as an appliance, generator, or car part, you would then file your claim against the manufacturer responsible for the product in question.

Another common example is when a tenant of an apartment or hotel is poisoned because of an issue within the building or complex. In such cases, either the landlord or the company in charge of maintaining the building would be responsible for your damages.

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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning–Potential Signs and Symptoms

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal if an individual is overexposed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has said that there are some initial warning signs symptoms to be aware of, such as

• Sudden bouts of confusion or brain fog
• Dizziness, nausea, or vomiting
• Muscle weakness
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing

What Can We Do to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

There are some proactive steps we can take to limit the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, including but not limited to:

• Ensure that you always have functioning carbon monoxide detectors in your home and any recreational vehicles
• Have a professional conduct yearly inspections on your ventilation systems and any appliances
• If applicable, have your chimney cleaned at least once per year
• Ensure all gas appliances have good ventilation

Keep in mind that these are basic steps that any responsible property owner should take. If you live in a building owned by another and suffer carbon monoxide poisoning because of their failure to follow the steps outlined above, you could have grounds for an injury claim.

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Contact Experienced Carbon Monoxide Attorneys Today

If you’ve suffered carbon monoxide poisoning at the hands of another, you may only have one opportunity to recover the compensation you need–make the most of it by calling the experienced team of carbon monoxide attorneys from Van Law Firm today. We’ve helped countless accident victims get back on their feet, and we’re standing by to help you too. Call our office nearest you today to schedule a free, confidential consultation and case review.