Ladders are used every day on construction sites, in warehouses, and even at home improvement stores. While ladders may seem simple, accidents involving them are often severe and can cause permanent injuries. Whether you were hurt on the job or at a commercial property, a ladder accident can leave you with medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery challenges. At Hillstone Law, we fight for victims of ladder accidents throughout California to secure the compensation they deserve.

Common Causes of Ladder Accidents

Ladder accidents often happen due to unsafe conditions or negligence. The most common causes include:

• Defective ladders – poorly designed or manufactured products that collapse or break
• Improper setup – ladders placed on uneven or slippery surfaces
• Overloading – exceeding the ladder’s maximum weight capacity
• Lack of safety equipment – no harnesses or fall protection provided by employers
• Workplace negligence – unsafe job site conditions or lack of employee training
• Improper use – rushing, leaning too far, or carrying heavy loads while climbing

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls from ladders account for nearly 20% of all fatal falls in construction.
Source: https://www.osha.gov/

Types of Injuries Caused by Ladder Accidents

Ladder accidents can cause life-changing injuries, such as:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Sprains, strains, and dislocations
• Wrongful death in severe cases

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that falls remain one of the leading causes of traumatic workplace injuries in the U.S.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/

Liability in Ladder Accident Cases

Determining who is responsible for a ladder accident depends on the circumstances:

• Employer liability – failing to provide safe working conditions or proper training
• Product liability – defective ladder design or manufacturing
• Property owner liability – unsafe surfaces or hazardous conditions on premises
• Third-party liability – subcontractors or outside parties creating unsafe conditions

Victims may be entitled to workers’ compensation if injured on the job, but in many cases, additional personal injury or product liability claims can also be pursued.

What to Do After a Ladder Accident

If you are injured in a ladder accident, take these steps to protect your health and legal rights:

1. Report the accident immediately to your employer or the property owner.
2. Request and complete an official incident report.
3. Seek immediate medical attention.
4. Take photos of the ladder, location, and hazardous conditions.
5. Collect witness names and contact information.
6. Save all medical bills and work-related documents.
7. Speak with an attorney before dealing with insurance companies.

How Hillstone Law Can Help

At Hillstone Law, we understand how devastating ladder accidents can be. Our attorneys will:

• Investigate the cause of the accident
• Review maintenance records, safety procedures, and training compliance
• Work with experts to prove product defects or unsafe working conditions
• Handle workers’ compensation claims and pursue additional third-party liability
• Fight for maximum compensation in settlement negotiations or court

We pursue damages for:

• Medical bills and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability
• Wrongful death damages for surviving families

If you or a loved one has been injured in a ladder accident in California, Hillstone Law is here to fight for your rights.