Buffalo Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Lawyer

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious and sometimes fatal hazard affecting families throughout Buffalo New York. This odorless gas produced by common fuel burning appliances can lead to devastating health consequences if not detected and addressed in time. When a property owner, landlord, or employer fails to maintain safe premises or install proper carbon monoxide detectors, lives can be changed forever.

At Brown Chiari LLP, our legal team represents individuals and families affected by carbon monoxide poisoning. We understand the unique legal and medical complexities that come with these cases. Whether you were harmed by a defective boiler, faulty heating system, or lack of ventilation in a rental unit, our Buffalo carbon monoxide poisoning lawyer team is ready to help you pursue compensation and hold negligent parties accountable.

The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Exposure in Buffalo

Carbon monoxide is commonly referred to as the silent killer because it cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. It is often produced by malfunctioning or poorly ventilated gas appliances, space heaters, water heaters, and other fuel burning equipment. Without proper carbon monoxide detectors or carbon monoxide alarms in place, the gas can quickly build up in enclosed spaces and poison the air.

Carbon monoxide exposure often causes vague flu-like symptoms, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, and fatigue. In more serious cases, it can result in permanent brain damage, unconsciousness, respiratory failure, or even death. The danger is heightened in buildings with poor ventilation systems, defective equipment, or a failure to comply with Amanda’s Law, which requires carbon monoxide detectors in most dwellings across New York State.

When someone suffers injury due to exposure, a blood test performed at the emergency room can confirm elevated carbon monoxide levels. Immediate medical attention is critical. Victims are typically advised to seek fresh air and remove themselves from the toxic environment as soon as possible. Sadly, many do not realize they have been poisoned until it is too late.

Causes of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Liability

Carbon monoxide poisoning may result from any number of preventable circumstances. Common sources include faulty fuel burning appliances, blocked flues or vents, broken water heaters, or malfunctioning space heaters. Carbon monoxide leaks can also occur when horizontal vent pipes are improperly installed or maintained, especially in older homes or buildings.

In New York, property owners and property managers have a legal duty to keep their premises safe. When their negligence leads to unsafe conditions and a poisoning event, they may be held liable through a personal injury lawsuit. Tenants, hotel guests, nursing home residents, and workers may all be at risk if appropriate steps are not taken to prevent carbon monoxide exposure.

Landlords who fail to install or maintain carbon monoxide detectors may be in direct violation of Amanda’s Law. In cases of carbon monoxide poisoning caused by defective products, manufacturers and distributors may also be held accountable through product liability claims. These claims often require expert testimony and documentation of the defect and resulting harm.

Health Effects and Long-Term Injuries

The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning range from mild discomfort to catastrophic injury. In severe cases, exposure to carbon monoxide gas can cause permanent brain injury, neurological disorders, cardiovascular damage, and death. Victims who survive may suffer memory loss, cognitive decline, and reduced quality of life.

Children, elderly adults, and individuals with preexisting health conditions are especially vulnerable. Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms may include confusion, chest pain, difficulty breathing, visual disturbances, and loss of consciousness. In many cases, victims require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and professional care to manage their injuries.

Brown Chiari LLP helps families pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other losses. Our attorneys understand how these injuries affect not just the victim but their entire family. We work to ensure our clients receive the full and fair compensation they deserve.

How Brown Chiari LLP Helps Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Victims

If you or a family member was injured or killed due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning in Buffalo or elsewhere in New York, you may have grounds for legal action. Our firm handles poisoning cases involving carbon monoxide exposure in rental properties, hotels, workplaces, schools, and private homes. We also represent families in wrongful death claims where exposure caused a fatality.

Our team investigates each case thoroughly, examining whether fuel burning appliances were installed or maintained properly, whether carbon monoxide alarms were functional, and whether safety codes were followed. We work with medical professionals and engineers to document the cause of the exposure and its impact on your health. This necessary evidence is key to building a strong case and pursuing the responsible parties.

Brown Chiari LLP offers free consultations and handles all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we obtain compensation for your injuries. Our law firm has successfully represented clients in carbon monoxide claims, toxic exposure cases, and premises liability lawsuits throughout Buffalo New York and surrounding communities.

Learn more about Buffalo Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Lawyer services. Call Brown Chiari LLP at (716) 681-7190 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.

Buffalo Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Lawyer FAQs

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure. Common symptoms include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, confusion, and chest pain. In severe cases, symptoms may escalate to seizures, loss of consciousness, or death. If you experience symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure, seek medical attention immediately.

Who can be held liable for carbon monoxide exposure?

Liability may fall on property owners, landlords, maintenance companies, equipment manufacturers, or property managers. If exposure was caused by negligence or defective equipment, these parties may be responsible for your injuries or losses. A personal injury attorney can help identify the appropriate responsible parties.

What should I do if I suspect a carbon monoxide leak?

If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, seek fresh air immediately and contact emergency services. Do not re-enter the premises until it has been inspected by qualified professionals. After receiving medical attention, speak with a lawyer to determine if you have a case.

Are carbon monoxide detectors required by law in New York?

Yes. Amanda’s Law requires carbon monoxide detectors in nearly all residential properties in New York State. This includes rental units and homes with fuel burning appliances. Property owners are responsible for maintaining carbon monoxide detectors in compliance with the law.

Can I file a lawsuit for carbon monoxide poisoning?

If your exposure to carbon monoxide was caused by someone else’s negligence or a defective product, you may have grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, long-term care, and pain and suffering. An attorney can evaluate your case and help you begin the legal process.