How a Fall From a Ladder Can Result in a Brain, Spinal Cord, or Back Injury for a Construction Worker
You’ve climbed up and down ladders many times. As a construction worker it is a routine part of your job. You always watch your footing and using a ladder is not something that frightens you. It may be something that you give very little thought to until you witness one of your coworkers fall and get seriously injured, or hear the story of another construction worker who suffered a brain injury, back injury, or spinal cord injury just from falling off a ladder.
What Are the Risks?
There is always a chance that you will get lucky if you fall off of a ladder. You may walk away without any injury or with a minor injury such as a sprained ankle. Unfortunately, it is also possible that a more significant injury could occur.
You could fall and hit your head or your back, causing a brain injury, a spinal cord injury, or another type of back injury. You could fall at such an angle that results in damage to your spine or to your brain. If one of these injuries occurs then you could suffer from:
- Paralysis
- Significant pain
- Loss of your bladder or bowel control
- Memory problems
- Speech problems
- Gross or fine motor problems
Some of these complications may go on for a significant amount of time—maybe even for the rest of your life.
What Should You Do If You’re Hurt?
We hope that you never suffer a serious injury from a ladder fall on one of your construction jobs. However, if you do then it is important to accept immediate medical attention and to contact an experienced construction accident lawyer for help. Early medical care can help you manage your pain, prevent your future injuries from worsening, and maximize your physical recovery. Similarly, getting prompt legal advice can help you protect your financial recovery.
Please share this library article on Facebook or by email with other construction workers that you know. Help inform others of the risks, and let them know that there is help available if they are hurt.
