Roofing is one of the most dangerous jobs in construction, and falls are among the leading causes of serious injury and death in the industry. When a roofer falls from an unguarded roof, the results can be catastrophic—broken bones, spinal damage, or even traumatic brain injuries.
Workers’ compensation benefits are designed to help you recover, but proving eligibility isn’t always simple. PLBH can help you document your injury and fight for the benefits you deserve.
The Dangers of Unguarded Roofs
Residential roofing projects often lack the safety infrastructure of large commercial sites. Without guardrails, warning lines, or harnesses, roofers face severe risks every time they climb a ladder or walk near an edge.
Common causes of roofing falls include:
- Lack of fall protection systems such as guardrails or harnesses
- Inadequate supervision or safety training
- Wet, uneven, or unstable roof surfaces
- Defective ladders or scaffolding
- Pressure to work quickly without proper precautions
Even a fall from a single-story roof can cause devastating injuries that keep a worker off the job for months.
Proving Your Injury Is Work-Related
Workers’ compensation covers injuries that occur while performing job duties, but insurers sometimes question whether the fall occurred “within the course of employment.” To strengthen your claim, you must show a clear connection between your job duties and the circumstances of your fall.
Evidence that helps support your case includes:
- Witness statements from co-workers or supervisors
- Site photographs showing the lack of guardrails or other safety equipment
- Accident reports or OSHA investigations
- Medical records linking the injury to the date of the incident
PLBH can coordinate the collection of this evidence and work with experts to establish that your injury was caused by unsafe work conditions, not personal negligence.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
If you’ve fallen from a roof, time is critical. You should report the incident to your employer as soon as possible and request medical care through the workers’ compensation system.
Key steps to take:
- Seek medical attention immediately—delaying treatment can harm both your health and your claim.
- Notify your employer in writing, describing when and how the fall occurred.
- File your workers’ compensation claim promptly to avoid missing any deadlines.
- Contact PLBH to ensure your documentation is complete and your rights are protected.
Common Challenges in Roofing Injury Cases
Insurance carriers may attempt to deny or limit your benefits by arguing that:
- You were an independent contractor, not an employee
- You ignored safety instructions or acted recklessly
- You were working on a side project unrelated to your employer
A skilled workers’ compensation attorney can challenge these claims by showing that your employer controlled the work environment and failed to provide adequate safety measures.
Benefits Available After a Roofing Fall
If your claim is approved, you may be entitled to:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs
- Temporary or permanent disability benefits
- Compensation for lost wages
- Job retraining if you cannot return to roofing work
PLBH will help you pursue the full range of benefits available and appeal any unfair denials.
Take Action After a Roofing Accident
Falling from a roof can end your career—but with the right help, it doesn’t have to end your financial stability. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 today for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through every step of your workers’ compensation claim and help you recover the benefits you deserve.