Carbon Monoxide
Every year Carbon Monoxide poisoning is responsible for the death and serious injury of an increasing number of people in the UK. Carbon monoxide is a natural product of burning fossil fuels such as gas, coal, wood or oil. However, when these fuels do not burn properly they produce toxic carbon monoxide fumes. The fumes are odourless, colourless and tasteless, which makes them extremely dangerous.
Ashton Lake Solicitors specialise in recovering compensation for people who have been fatally and seriously injured through exposure to carbon monoxide through no fault of their own.
What are the main causes of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Most cases of carbon monoxide poisoning are due to insufficient ventilation or inadequate maintenance of appliances, blocked or leaky flues and chimneys. The majority of cases occur during the winter when these appliances are used more often.
How does Carbon Monoxide exposure result in injury?
The red blood cells in the body pick up Carbon Monoxide quicker than they pick up oxygen. This means that if there is a lot of Carbon Monoxide in the air, the body may replace oxygen in the blood with Carbon Monoxide. If this occurs it is likely that oxygen will be blocked from getting into the body, which can damage tissues in the body and cause serious and often fatal injury.
What are the symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning?
- Headaches and Dizziness
- Loss of concentration
- Nausea and vomiting
- ‘Pins and needles’ sensation
- Weakness
- Vision problems
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
In what circumstances may I have a claim for Carbon Monoxide poisoning?
Landlords, employers, and any other person or body who owes a duty of care for your safety must take reasonable steps to protect you from exposure to carbon monoxide. If they have failed to take reasonable steps and you have suffered injury as a result then you may be able to recover compensation. Examples of reasonable steps to take could be ensuring that:
- Fireplace chimneys and flues are checked and cleaned every year;
- All fuel-burning appliances are properly installed, maintained, and operated;
- Water heaters are inspected every year by a qualified technician;
- Vehicle exhaust systems are regularly checked for defects;
Carbon monoxide claims can be complex and it is advised that you speak to a specialist solicitor. We are experts in bringing claims of this nature. Our aim is to get to the truth of why the accident occurred and to obtain the maximum compensation possible. We pride ourselves in high levels of client care and will always progress your claim with sensitivity at every stage of the process.
If you wish to make an enquiry, then please complete the online enquiry form or call 01509 262621 to speak to a specialist solicitor. We offer a wide choice of funding arrangements including a no win no fee agreement in which you keep 100% of your compensation with no deductions of any kind.
