Winter storms can create dangerous carbon monoxide risks when people use portable generators indoors or too close to the home. The hazard kills nearly 100 people annually, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, reporting that about 85 consumers die each year from gasoline-powered portable generators. If a generator injury or carbon monoxide exposure has affected your family, Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP says it can help review legal options.
Why Choose Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP for Generator Injury Claims
Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP says it has more than 40 years of experience handling catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death, and product liability matters, and it states that it works on a contingency fee basis.
How Portable Generators Cause Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Do Generators Produce It
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas created when fuel burns, including gasoline used by portable generators. It is dangerous because it can prevent oxygen from reaching vital organs, and people may not realize they are being exposed until symptoms appear.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Poisoning
Running a generator indoors, in a garage, basement, crawl space, or partially enclosed area is a major cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. Placing a generator too close to windows, doors, or vents can also let fumes enter the home, and grills or camping stoves used indoors create similar risks.
Recognizing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms
Early symptoms can include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and chest pain. As exposure continues, confusion, loss of consciousness, and death can occur, sometimes quickly. Symptoms may resemble the flu, which can delay treatment.
Winter Storm Generator Safety
Prevention Steps
Portable generators should be used outdoors only, in a well-ventilated area, and kept at least 20 feet from the home, windows, doors, and vents. They should never be used in a garage or other enclosed space, even if a door is open.
Battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every level of the home and tested regularly. Generators should be refueled only when cool and outdoors, and indoor use of grills, camping stoves, or charcoal for heat should be avoided.
What To Do After Exposure
If carbon monoxide exposure is suspected, leave the area immediately and move to fresh air. Call 911 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 and do not re-enter until emergency responders clear the building. Medical evaluation is important even if symptoms seem mild because delayed injuries can occur.
Legal Options for Generator Injuries
Potential claims may depend on whether a generator was defectively designed, defectively manufactured, or sold without adequate warnings. Other possible claims may involve negligence or premises liability if another person or property owner contributed to the exposure. Statutes of limitations vary by state, so prompt review is important.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can carbon monoxide poisoning occur?
Serious injury or death can occur within minutes of exposure, depending on the level of carbon monoxide and the circumstances. Lower-level exposure over time can also cause significant harm.
Can I use a generator in my garage if the door is open?
No. Generators should not be used in garages, basements, or other enclosed spaces, even with a door open. CO can still enter the home through openings and vents.
How long do I have to file a claim for a CO poisoning injury?
Deadlines vary by state, and many states allow two to three years for personal injury claims. Wrongful death claims can have different deadlines, so it is important to act quickly.
Contact Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP for a Free Consultation
If you or a family member suffered carbon monoxide poisoning during a winter storm, Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP says it can help with a free case review. Call (713) 230-2200 to discuss your situation and learn whether a legal claim may be available.
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