When the weather turns cold, typically we hear about a tragedy involving a person or a family who was killed or seriously injured by carbon monoxide poisoning. This normally happens when their furnace malfunctions or is not properly vented outside.
Carbon monoxide is often referred to as a “silent killer”. It has no odor, taste, or color, and it is deadly. It is released when fossil fuels are burned in oil or gas furnaces. When the gas is inhaled, it combines with hemoglobin in the individual’s blood, which blocks the ability to carry oxygen to the cells of the body. This can cause the body to begin to suffocate, even though the person is still breathing. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be treated by removing the person from the gas, or by giving them oxygen. However, in some cases that does not happen quickly enough, and the person may die from carbon monoxide exposure.
If you were exposed to carbon monoxide in your apartment, your landlord may be held legally responsible, depending on the circumstances of what happened. Because carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, it cannot be easily detected. If an apartment building used gas or oil furnaces, the landlord should install carbon monoxide detectors. They are not expensive and can help prevent a tragedy. The landlord should also have chimneys, furnaces, and fireplaces inspected regularly. In some cases, the landlord is not to blame. The heater or furnace may have been improperly installed or defectively designed or manufactured. In that case, you may be able to hold another company liable for your injuries.
If you have been injured by carbon monoxide in Los Angeles, you should speak with an attorney. You have legal rights that need to be protected. Call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles personal injury attorney, at 310-385-0567. My team can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.