Power tool accidents can happen when you least expect them. While these tools were typically used in the construction industry, power tools have become more common than ever among homeowners and hobbyists. The proliferation of power tools has had a direct impact on the increasing likelihood of these devices causing serious injury.
The unfortunate reality for many people is that power tools can have defects. If you have been injured by one of these defective tools, you could have grounds to pursue legal action with the help of an NYC construction accident lawyer. Before you attempt to resolve your legal case on your own, reach out to the law firm of Friedman, Levy, Goldfarb & Green as soon as possible.
Common defective power tools
In theory, any tool could be defective. However, certain defects are more likely to result in serious injury and construction accident compensation. Power tools that commonly cause injuries include:
- Drills
- Welding equipment
- Grinders
- Sanders
- Ladders
- Nail guns
- Table saws
- Jig saws
Pursuing compensation when malfunction or poor design of any of these tools result in a serious injury could be possible, but succeeding in these cases alone can be difficult. A New York power tool accident attorney can help pursue legal action whether the injury resulted from a defective tool or an act of negligence on another person’s behalf.
Examples of power tool accident injuries
There are many different examples of common injuries from power tools. These injuries can be related to a defect, but there are also injuries that stem from the negligent use of an otherwise reliable tool. Each of these injuries has the potential to lead to serious issues for the victim. Some common injuries include:
- Cuts and lacerations. Damage to the skin is common with power tool accidents. Nail guns can result in penetrating wounds, while saws can leave severe lacerations.
- Amputations. Some power tools, particularly those with the power to cut or saw, can result in an amputation of a body part.
- Electrocutions. Electrocution injuries are possible with any power tool that requires electricity to operate. Faulty wiring could result in an electrocution when using these tools.
- Burns. Some power tools provide an inherent risk of burn injuries. These tools might emit heat or flame as part of their primary function. Burns are a possibility when these tools are defective.
Understanding power tool defects
Not all power tool defects are created equal. The defects that could result in an injury can vary as much as the types of tools that are available on the market. Understanding the nature of a defect could improve your chances of success when you pursue legal action with the help of an attorney.
- Defective design. Design flaws could make a power tool inherently dangerous. When defects occur during the design process, they impact every model built using that design.
- Manufacturing defects. Some defects occur even when the design is not problematic. These defects—known as manufacturing defects—can occur during any point from the factory to the store shelves. Some of these defects occur during production, while others can happen based on how the tool is transported or sold.
- Marketing defects. A marketing defect is a mistake or omission in the warning labels or instructions for a power tool. When these instructions fail to warn of a high likelihood of injury, they could be defective. The same is true when the instructions do not make it clear how to use it safely.
Talk to an attorney about a defective power tool accident
If you were injured by a defective power tool, you could be entitled to compensation. You have the right to seek legal counsel when pursuing the damages you deserve. The team at Friedman Levy is ready to advocate zealously on your behalf. Reach out as soon as possible to schedule your free consultation.
