Carbon monoxide poisoning can result in catastrophic fatal injuries. When carbon monoxide exposure results from another party’s negligence, victims have a right to take legal action to recover damages. If you or a loved one has suffered carbon monoxide poisoning in San Diego, turn to Thompson Injury Law.
We have a demonstrated track record in personal injury lawsuits arising from carbon monoxide poisoning. When you meet with us, we will work to identify the responsible party. Whether you have been harmed due to the negligence of a property owner or product manufacturer, we have the skills and experience to get you just compensation. Contact our office today to get started with an experienced carbon monoxide poisoning attorney.
San Diego Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Attorneys
Carbon monoxide (CO )is known as the “silent killer” because fumes are odorless, tasteless, and colorless. That can make it difficult to pinpoint the carbon monoxide source. However, poisoning is most likely to occur in confined spaces when this potentially lethal gas is released.
Dangerous CO concentrations can build up indoors and go undetected until people become ill or die. Sources of carbon monoxide include:
- Furnaces or boilers
- Gas stoves and ovens
- Fireplaces, both gas and wood burning
- Water heaters
- Clothes dryers
- Wood stoves
- Power generators
- Motor vehicles
- Power tools and lawn equipment
- Tobacco smoke
While individuals who live in homes with attached garages or fuel-burning appliances are more at risk, exposure can also occur in the workplace. Regardless of the source of the leak, trust our legal team to identify the responsible party, hold them accountable, and get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
Common Symptoms You May Have Been Overly Exposed
CO poisoning symptoms can be flu-like, so victims may not recognize the early signs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Confusion
While anyone exposed to high levels of CO is at risk, some are more likely to become ill, such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with chronic heart disease, respiratory disease, or anemia. The CDC reports that more than 400 Americans die from carbon monoxide poisoning each year, and more than 4,000 people are hospitalized.
Degrees of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide exposure can be fatal, but lower levels of exposure can cause acute poisoning, resulting in illness. There are three degrees of acute poisoning depending on the level of exposure:
- Mild CO poisoning can cause headache, nausea, or vomiting and may not be diagnosed unless there is suspicion of exposure
- Moderate CO exposure can result in worsening symptoms such as increased nausea and dizziness, weakness, fatigue, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and chest pains.
- Severe cases of carbon monoxide poisoning can result in in complications, such as seizures, coma, and brain damage or death
Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
How Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Treated?
If you have been poisoned by carbon monoxide, go outdoors immediately and call 911. Quick treatment is essential to prevent life-threatening complications. Treatment may involve:
- Oxygen treatment – Breathing pure oxygen is the best way to treat CO poisoning by increasing oxygen levels and removing CO from the blood. A doctor will place an oxygen mask over your nose and mouth for you to inhale. Oxygen will be provided through a ventilator if you cannot breathe on your own,
- Oxygen chamber – In severe cases, you may be placed in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber which can quickly increase oxygen levels in the blood.
How Can Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Be Prevented?
There are several ways to prevent CO poisoning, including:
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in homes or in recreational vehicles
- Ensure all gas appliances are well-ventilated
- Have a qualified technician perform yearly inspections on appliances that produce carbon monoxide.
- Check and clean chimneys annually
If you or a loved one has suffered CO poisoning due to another party’s negligence, you have a right to file a lawsuit to hold them accountable and recover damages.
How San Diego-based Thompson Injury Law Helps Victims
If you or a loved one has been the victim of CO poisoning, our experienced environmental claims attorney will explore all your legal options. Depending on the circumstances, we can help you file a premises liability claim against a negligent property owner for failing to keep you safe. If a defective product was the source of the CO leak, our team can pursue a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer. In any event, we will work to win you damages such as:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitative care
- Lost wages (past and future)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
If a loved one has died due to CO poisoning, we can help you pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party. Regardless of the circumstances, we will fight for your rights and stand by you every step of the way.
Contact Our Experienced San Diego Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Attorney
If you or a loved one has been the victim of carbon monoxide poisoning, Thompson Injury Law can help. Contact our office today for a free consultation.
Thompson Injury Law handles carbon monoxide poisoning cases all around the San Diego metropolitan area; this includes areas such as Carlsbad, Chula Vista, El Cajon, Encinitas, Escondido, La Mesa, National City, Oceanside, San Marcos, Santee, and Vista.