Readers in New Haven likely recall Superstorm Sandy and the devastation she left in her wake. In addition to the destruction of buildings, homes and cars, the storm caused hazardous conditions that resulted in injuries and even deaths up and down the east coast. Following the storm, the National Hurricane Center reported that, directly resulting from Sandy, at least 72 people were killed.
According to reports, a 23-year-old woman was killed during the storm in New York City when a power line that had been downed electrocuted her. She had apparently gone outside to snap some pictures of the storm. Family members, other bystanders and emergency responders were all unable to help the woman, who burned alive, as it took nearly two hours for the company to shut off power to the line.
The woman’s mother has reportedly filed a lawsuit against Con Edison, the area’s utility company, for wrongful death. She claims the company should have shut off the power prior to the storm hitting. Their not doing so, the mother alleges, was negligence, which resulted in her daughter’s death. A representative for Con Edison reportedly called the woman’s death a tragedy, but did not offer any explanation as to why the power was left on during the storm.
The loss of a loved one is never easy, especially when their death may have been able to be prevented. In cases such as this, an attorney can help you to determine whether you have grounds for legal action. A lawyer will offer advice based on your situation and can answer any other questions that you may have.
Source: The Connecticut Post, “Mom of woman electrocuted during Sandy sues ConEd”, Sep. 18, 2013
