Ladder Injuries

Ladders are inherently dangerous. Proper use and safety equipment minimize those risks. Those who suffer ladder injuries often face serious limitations and, in some cases, disability.

If you were hurt at work, seeking the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer in Riverside can help you recover fair compensation for the losses you suffered.

Why Ladder Injuries Happen

Ladder accidents happen for various reasons. Because ladder injuries are so dangerous, there are specific OSHA guidelines that employers must follow to minimize such risks. Some of the most common reasons these accidents happen include:

• Unsafe workplaces. This may be due to crowded areas, excessive clutter, or limited space, or to a ladder that is not properly placed or secured.
• Defective equipment. In some situations, the ladder rungs or loose boards on scaffolding can cause a person to fall. This may happen due to poorly designed or poorly maintained equipment.
• Lack of protective measures. Depending on the situation, there are numerous safety requirements aimed at minimizing such injuries and accidents. This includes harnesses, guardrails, and protective gear. For example, OSHA requires fall protection when a person is working on a ladder that is 24 feet or more above the ground.

Poor training, a lack of active oversight, or simply rushing to get the job done can all contribute to these accidents and injuries. When they happen, they are nearly always preventable injuries.

Common Ladder Injuries

Ladder injuries can cause a variety of injuries. The height, the way a person falls, and the surface itself all play a role in the seriousness of such incidents. Some of the most common types of injuries brought on by ladder-related accidents include:

• Broken bones
• Soft tissue injuries, including sprains and strains
• Traumatic brain injuries occur when the head is struck
• Spinal cord injuries
• Lacerations
• Loss of life

Because ladder injuries can be so traumatic and devastating, even causing permanent mobility loss, victims should always seek immediate care. Do not wait for approval from your employer in cases of emergency.

When Are Ladder Injuries Related to Workplace Injuries?

If you were hurt at work due to ladder use, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. This typically applies in situations where your employer is required to have workers’ compensation. You do not have to prove that the employer was negligent in these cases. If you were hurt at work due to work-related activities, you can file a workers’ compensation claim.

Workers’ compensation may attempt to deny your claim in some situations. That may include:

• Disputes over where the injury occurred
• Statements that you were not engaged in work-related tasks
• Documentation that you were acting in an irresponsible manner at the time
• Lack of evidence that the injury happened at work
• Limited medical documentation to show your injuries and losses

Workers’ compensation claims can be challenging even in cases where you have clear evidence of what happened. Ladder injuries should not change the course of your life.

Work with a Ladder Injury Attorney in California for Guidance

If you are hurt at work, workers’ compensation should cover your medical bills and, in some cases, your time off. If you have ladder injuries and are getting pushback from your employer, contact our workers’ compensation attorneys for the guidance you need.

We offer free consultations to help you get valuable insights.