Falls from ladders and roofs are common workplace accidents, especially in industries like construction, roofing, and maintenance. These falls can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and back injuries. If you’ve been injured in a fall at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which can help cover medical expenses and lost wages while you recover.
Common Injuries from Falls
Falls from ladders and roofs can lead to a wide range of injuries, depending on the height of the fall and the surface on which you land. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Fractures: Broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, or ribs, are common in falls from height.
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions and skull fractures, can occur if the worker’s head strikes the ground or an object during the fall.
- Spinal Injuries: Falls from a significant height can result in spinal cord damage, leading to temporary or permanent disability.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and contusions are also frequent outcomes of falls.
No matter the severity of your injuries, workers’ compensation is designed to help you recover physically and financially after a workplace fall.
What Workers’ Compensation Covers
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. If you’ve fallen from a ladder or roof while working, workers’ compensation can help cover the following:
Medical Expenses
Workers’ compensation will cover the cost of medical treatment related to your injury, including:
- Hospital visits and emergency care
- Surgeries and medical procedures
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Prescription medications
It’s essential to seek immediate medical attention after a fall, even if your injuries don’t seem severe at first. Prompt medical care ensures that your injuries are properly documented, which is critical when filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from returning to work right away, workers’ compensation can help replace a portion of your lost income. Wage replacement benefits are typically calculated based on your average weekly earnings before the accident, though the amount you receive may vary depending on your state’s workers’ compensation laws.
Permanent Disability Benefits
In cases where a fall results in long-term or permanent disability, workers’ compensation may provide additional benefits to account for the lasting impact on your ability to work. If you are unable to return to your previous job or require vocational training to pursue a new line of work, these benefits may be available to help support your transition.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim After a Fall
After a fall from a ladder or roof, it’s important to file a workers’ compensation claim to access the benefits you need. Following these steps can help ensure that your claim is successful:
1. Report the Accident
The first step in filing a workers’ compensation claim is reporting the accident to your employer. Be sure to notify them as soon as possible, providing details about when and how the fall occurred. Delaying this step could result in your claim being denied.
2. Seek Medical Care
Prompt medical attention is crucial not only for your health but also for your workers’ compensation claim. Your medical provider will document the extent of your injuries and provide treatment recommendations. Be sure to keep copies of all medical records, as they will be needed when filing your claim.
3. File the Workers’ Compensation Claim
Once you’ve reported the accident and received medical care, your employer should provide you with the necessary forms to file a workers’ compensation claim. Fill out the paperwork carefully and include all relevant documentation, such as medical records and any evidence related to the accident.
Challenges You May Face
While workers’ compensation is designed to provide benefits to injured workers, some claims can face challenges. Common issues include disputes over whether the injury occurred at work, delays in receiving benefits, or even claim denials. If you encounter any of these obstacles, seeking legal assistance can help you navigate the process and advocate for the compensation you deserve.
How PLBH Can Help
Navigating the workers’ compensation process after a serious fall can be overwhelming, especially when you’re focused on recovering from your injuries. At PLBH, we specialize in helping employees with their workers’ compensation claims. We can assist with:
- Filing your claim and gathering the necessary documentation
- Addressing any disputes or challenges that arise during the process
- Advocating for the full benefits you’re entitled to receive
If you’ve been injured in a fall from a ladder or roof at work, don’t wait to take action. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 to discuss your legal options and get the support you need to secure your workers’ compensation benefits.