Carbon monoxide poisoning (CO) poses a significant threat to many as it often goes undetected. The deadly gas is produced when burning certain fuel sources, such as coal, wood, charcoal, natural gas, and oil used for fuel. CO is colorless and has no noticeable odor. For this reason, carbon monoxide is often called the “silent killer.”

Nationwide, carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the primary causes of accidental poisonings. Sadly, there are approximately 1,000 fatalities due to CO poisoning annually. Moreover, carbon monoxide poisoning causes thousands of non-fatal injuries each year that require treatment in hospital emergency rooms.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Injuries

If carbon monoxide is inhaled, the toxic gas enters an individual’s bloodstream, stopping the flow of oxygen. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) the symptoms caused by carbon monoxide poisoning mirror those of other less serious illnesses. These include indicators that typically accompany the flu or food poisoning. For this reason, CO poisoning can too often go undiagnosed.

Carbon monoxide poisoning has many adverse effects. An individual exposed to CO will present with symptoms such as fatigue, headache, weakness, confusion, disorientation, nausea, and dizziness. CO poisoning causes poor coordination and can exacerbate any pre-existing cardiovascular issues. If an individual is exposed to elevated levels of carbon monoxide, the result can be an irregular heart rhythm or coma. Too often, CO poisoning can be deadly.
Liability for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Accidents

Landlords and business owners are legally required to take necessary precautions to protect residents and consumers from carbon monoxide poisoning. Typical safeguards that must be employed include regular inspections, the installation of carbon monoxide detectors, and compliance with standard building codes during installation of any gas-powered equipment.

There are several instances in which legal liability can be established due to an injury from carbon monoxide poisoning. A CO poisoning lawsuit can be filed based on the negligence and/or failure to notify others of a potential threat. Moreover, a products liability lawsuit can be filed due to a carbon monoxide accident resulting from a defective product.

A variety of entities may be named in a carbon monoxide accident lawsuit. These include manufacturers, business owners, builders, and landlords. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the carbon monoxide poisoning accident, a lawsuit may name several defendants who have to respond to the injury claim.
Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers at Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP Represent Victims of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Injuries

If you or a loved one have experienced carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of the negligence of another, contact the Philadelphia personal injury lawyers at Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP. Our injury lawyers have extensive experience representing accident victims throughout Pennsylvania and Delaware and will explore all available legal recourse. Our lawyers will work to obtain the maximum amount of compensation to which you are entitled. Call us at (215) 731-9900 or contact us online.