When an emergency heart event happens, seconds matter. While calling 911 for help is an important first step, an automatic external defibrillator (AED) is an immediately accessible tool to save a life. In many areas, it is a required safety element.
AED liability issues happen when devices are missing or not available, leading to life-threatening complications. At Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers, our AED liability lawyer in Harvey holds those locations accountable for the losses they create. We have recovered over $100 million for our clients. Talk to our Harvey personal injury lawyer today.
When AED Liability Issues Exist
The use of an AED defibrillator can mean the difference between life and death for someone facing an emergency. In these situations, there are several common ways a property owner or manager could fail negligently. Examples include:
- AED machine not present. The device simply was not there when required to be there.
- Lack of trained professionals to use the AED. Someone must be able to use the AED defibrillator and should receive training on when and how to use it.
- Liability for improper use of an AED. The device was there, but someone did not use it properly.
- A defective defibrillator causes complications, especially when a defective defibrillator lawsuit already exists with other victims.
- AED lacks maintenance. Most devices require simple maintenance to ensure they are working as expected. Failures can lead to complications in the device’s operation.
In each of these situations, we must prove negligence. That means there was a duty of care, as noted in one of the previous examples, and that duty was violated. That led to the accident that caused the health complication. Proving each of these areas is critical to seeking a full and fair level of compensation.
Catastrophic Injury Cases
AED liability issues must cause harm to the individual, meaning that the lack of proper care worsened their likely outcome. This often leads to devastating complications to heart health and overall well-being.
Our Harvey catastrophic injury lawyer can help you navigate your rights under this area of the law if you or your loved one suffered a serious injury.
Wrongful Death Cases
Many times, the lack of proper AED care leads to the early death of an individual who otherwise would likely have survived. Our Harvey wrongful death lawyer provides the victim’s family with the legal support they need in these situations to hold those who caused their loss to face consequences. We seek full compensation if your loved one lost their life to get justice for them and financial support for you. Learn more about our team today.
Injured on Someone Else’s Property?
Know Your RightsOur expert premises liability lawyers will help you hold negligent property owners accountable.
Get a Free Case Evaluation
(504) 500-1111Factors That Complicated AED Liability Issues
It may not always be straightforward to prove that a facility caused your losses or took the life of your family member. Personal injury attorneys like our team can help you navigate your rights under the law by examining evidence to support your claims.
For example, we must show that the lack of an AED caused the complications, not the underlying heart disease or other factors. Demonstrating that a heart attack, for example, is reversible with the AED and that a person would survive is not simplistic. Yet, we must demonstrate this to hold those who hurt you accountable.
To build your case, our legal team works with medical experts. We have a long list of resources and a strong network that enables us to research your specific condition or your loved one’s to develop a clear understanding of the likely outcome. Not every heart attack resulting in death is a liability matter, but many are.
Legal Requirements for AED Use and Availability
Victims suffering complications from an AED machine may be able to hold the location accountable if they can demonstrate negligence. Under the Jump Start Your Heart Act, a law in Louisiana, many brick-and-mortar locations must maintain an AED and ensure it is available in the event of a cardiac emergency. Some examples of locations required to maintain these devices include:
- All elementary, middle, and high schools
- All post-secondary schools and institutions
- All locations hosting athletic events at all levels
- Physical fitness locations and gyms
- Locations such as medical buildings
In addition to this, federal buildings and services must also provide access to these devices, including post offices and airports. The lack of a device, or its improper use, can lead victims to file a claim against the property owner or manager. This is a tricky process, and one best left to our Harvey AED liability attorney at Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers.
Harmed by a Dangerous Defective Product?
We’re Here for YouOur experienced product liability attorneys will fight to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Schedule a Free Consultation
(504) 500-1111Seeking Fair Compensation for Your Losses
Victims of these accidents have the right to seek fair compensation for all losses they have suffered. Examples of those losses for a person who suffers consequences of an AED machine failing include:
- Extensive medical costs related to the AED use or lack of it
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income and earnings
- Disability
- Loss of quality of life
- Long-term implications for health and well-being
- Modifications to your home and vehicles due to loss of mobility
- Impact on the length of your life
In addition to this, our legal team pursues comprehensive compensation for the victim’s families after their loved one loses their life due to an AED defect. This includes final burial and funeral costs, as well as long-term financial support for remaining family members.
It may include pain and suffering, emotional loss, and long-term financial support and contributions to relationships. Your loved one’s death does not get better, but we fight for justice. More information is available in our FAQs section.
Slip and Fall Accident?
Get the Legal Support You NeedOur dedicated slip and fall attorneys will help you navigate the legal process and claim the compensation you deserve.
Speak to a Lawyer Today
(504) 500-1111Schedule a Free Consultation with an AED Liability Attorney in Harvey Now
As the victim of an AED liability issue, we strongly encourage you to speak to a well-qualified attorney before you settle your case or move on with your life. At Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers, we know the rules and how locations must comply with them or pay for the damages they cause.
We are here to fight for you. Speak to our Harvey AED liability lawyer for the one-on-one support you need now. We provide free consultations.