Causes of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas that is created by the burning of materials containing carbon. According to a fact sheet created by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, carbon monoxide results from an incomplete burning of natural gas, gasoline, kerosene, oil, propane, wood, coal and other gases or materials containing carbon.
Carbon monoxide poisoning typically occurs when people are exposed to idling vehicles, old heaters and other gas-powered machines or appliances. Many of the clients we have represented have suffered carbon monoxide injuries because a business or professional worker acted in a negligent manner, typically during installation of the appliance, or its maintenance or repair.
Examples of appliances, tools, products and machines that may cause carbon monoxide exposure include:
- Gas heaters
- Gas ovens
- Propane stoves and heaters
- Gas water heaters
- Gas-powered tools
- Poorly ventilated fireplaces
- Cars, trucks and motorcycles
- Boats
Most new homes come equipped with a battery operated CO detector. If your home does not have a CO detector, you should have one installed and keep fresh batteries on hand at all times. A gas employee or other suitable professional can perform a CO test to determine if your home has any unsafe appliances.
The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and its effect on the brain are so gradual that even if you have been exposed to carbon monoxide, such as by means of a defective gas appliance or auto exhaust, it could easily take several months before you even notice your symptoms. You know something is wrong but you don’t know what it could be. Exposure to even low levels of carbon monoxide can cause damage to the brain that results in loss of memory, headaches, nausea or emotional imbalances (depression or anxiety), focus and cognitive ability. It is crucial that you take immediate action if you are undergoing such symptoms and suspect that a malfunctioning appliance could be the cause.
Contact an Attorney
Carbon monoxide injuries are very serious. If you or a family member suspect carbon monoxide might be the cause of some change in the way you think, or feel, or focus on your life, then you may have a basis to receive compensation for your injuries. Let an experienced personal injury attorney review the facts of your case to determine if there is a legal remedy available to you.
To speak with a lawyer at the Swanson & McKibbin, contact our law office in Beverly Hills, California. Call 310-887-3600 to schedule a free initial consultation or contact us by e-mail.
