The Swanson Law Firm is committed to preventing carbon monoxide poisoning and protecting the rights of people who have suffered an injury caused by carbon monoxide exposure. We have provided below a list of frequently asked questions about carbon monoxide poisoning. We hope the answers to these common questions will be informative and helpful.
If you have been injured as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning, contact our law office in Beverly Hills, California. To speak with a member of our firm or schedule a free initial consultation, call 310-887-3600, or contact us by e-mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is a gas. It is odorless and colorless. It is poisonous and can cause serious or even fatal damage.
How Common is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), carbon monoxide poisoning is the leading cause of accidental death by poisoning and the second highest cause of all accidental death in the United States. The CDC reports that 20,000 people visit the emergency room each year in the U.S. to be treated for carbon monoxide poisoning.
How Do I Know If I have Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
The typical case is not fatal but rather has some effect on the brain. This can appear as an inability to stay focused, a loss of short term memory, and/or an interference with certain logical functioning. You don't know right away that anything is seriously wrong, but you feel that things are not as they once were.
What Causes Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
According to the CDC, the most common culprits include heating systems, gas stoves and gas-powered generators. Other causes include idling cars, trucks or boats, and any gas-powered tool or appliance.
How Do I Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Gas heaters that cause carbon monoxide poisoning are often old. Routine maintenance and a carbon monoxide check by your gas company can be helpful. If you have a gas stove, do not use it to heat your home in the event that your furnace fails. If you are operating a gas-powered machine, make sure you are outside or have proper ventilation. Be sure to install a CO detector in your home. Additional prevention tips can be found at the CDC Web site.
What do I do if I am Exposed to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Seek immediate medical attention and speak with a lawyer. If your exposure was caused by the negligence of a business or individual, you may have a basis to receive financial compensation for your injuries. Contact the Swanson Law Firm
To speak with an attorney at The Swanson Law firm, call 310-887-3600.
