Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Lawyers in Charlotte

Handling Complex Premises Liability Claims

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that, when inhaled, can be lethal to humans. According to state law, carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in every rental and lodging property, such as hotels and bed and breakfasts, within the state. If a property owner, landlord, or manager fails to install carbon monoxide detectors correctly and according to the law, this may constitute negligence on their part. If you or someone you love suffered carbon monoxide poisoning as a result, you may be able to recover compensation for your damages, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and more.

At Charles G. Monnett III & Associates, we understand just how serious these cases are. If you suffered symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure or if your loved one tragically passed away due to carbon monoxide poisoning, we want to help. Our attorneys can help you file a premises liability claim to hold the negligent property owner accountable and seek the fair compensation and recovery you deserve.

Contact us online or call (704) 859-2003 for a free consultation with one of our carbon monoxide poisoning lawyers in Charlotte.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

First and foremost, if you believe you or a loved one is showing signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, go outside immediately and call your local poison control center or 911. Carbon monoxide poisoning is potentially fatal and should be treated with absolute urgency.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea, with or without vomiting
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• “Dull” headache
• Confusion
• Vision problems
• Loss of consciousness

Carbon monoxide poisoning is always dangerous, but it is particularly dangerous when a person is sleeping, intoxicated, elderly, or has an underlying heart condition, anemia, or breathing problems. Such individuals may not notice the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and, therefore, are more susceptible to the harmful effects of prolonged exposure.

Risks of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning not linked to fires claims the lives of more than 400 Americans every year. It is also responsible for about 20,000 hospital visits and 4,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. annually. If not treated immediately, carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to permanent brain damage, tissue damage, heart damage, miscarriage, and/or death.

What Causes Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Put simply, carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when an individual inhales combustion fumes. This often occurs when gas- and other fuel-burning appliances are not properly ventilated. For example, if a gas-burning furnace lacks proper ventilation and is enclosed within a small, unventilated room, occupants of that room are at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Cars and other vehicles also emit carbon monoxide, as do fires.

Property Owner Responsibility

In North Carolina, certain property owners are required by law to install carbon monoxide detectors inside their buildings to ensure occupant safety. Landlords must install at least one carbon monoxide detector on each level of a rental unit, whereas hotel and other lodging owners must install carbon monoxide detectors in any space, including sleeping areas, that shares a floor, wall, or ceiling with an enclosed space containing an appliance that uses fossil fuels.

So, if you suffered carbon monoxide poisoning while staying in a hotel that lacked proper carbon monoxide detectors or if your loved one died in their apartment because the landlord had not installed carbon monoxide detectors, the property owner would be considered negligent. However, if you live in an apartment that does have carbon monoxide detectors but you failed to change the batteries in the device, your landlord is not liable.

Contact Our Attorneys Today

These types of premises liability claims can be very complex; you will need to not only prove that a property owner was negligent in failing to install carbon monoxide detectors but also that you suffered injuries and/or damages as a result of that negligence. It’s important that you work with an experienced carbon monoxide poisoning lawyer in Charlotte who can help you fight for your right to a fair and just recovery.

Since 1983, Charles G. Monnett III & Associates has been helping victims of serious bodily injury and the loved ones of those wrongfully killed fight to hold negligent parties accountable. Our attorneys are prepared to answer your questions and advocate tirelessly for you throughout the entire legal process.

Give us a call at (704) 859-2003 or submit an online contact form to get started with a free, confidential consultation and case review.