Construction sites can be dangerous. There’s a lot that can go wrong. Ladders, whether small step ladders or tall scaffolds are a big concern. They can be risky. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, ladder accidents are one of the major reasons people get hurt or even die on construction sites. OSHA estimates that more than 300 workers die in ladder accidents every year, and thousands more get injured.
If you or a loved one gets injured in a ladder accident, know that ladder accident attorneys are ready and capable of helping you seek compensation and justice. In this blog, we will explore 5 severe injuries that can occur from ladder falls.
1. Concussions
A concussion happens when your brain shakes inside your skull from a hard impact. It iscommon in falls where your head hits the ground, a hard surface, or even scaffolding or equipment. Over time, symptoms like headaches, trouble sleeping, or feeling “off” might pop up.
The thing with concussions is they’re not always visible. Even if you don’t see a cut or bruise, your brain could still be dealing with some damage inside your head. Without proper care, a concussion could lead to more serious issues down the line, so it’s essential to get checked out by a doctor, even if you think you’re fine.
2. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
A TBI is like a more serious version of a concussion. It may develop when a blow or jolt to the head disrupts how your brain works. In a fall from a ladder, the impact can be enough to cause bruising or bleeding inside the brain.
TBIs can cause long-term problems with thinking, memory, and even emotions. You might find it hard to focus, get confused, or have trouble remembering things. In severe cases, TBIs can lead to permanent cognitive impairment or changes in personality. The effects of a TBI can last for days, weeks, or even longer, depending on how bad the injury is.
3. Skull Fractures
When a fall from a ladder hits hard enough, it can cause a skull fracture, which can affect your brain and lead to bleeding inside your head. If you’re unlucky enough to suffer a skull fracture, you could experience dizziness, confusion, or even loss of consciousness.
A skull fracture can range from a crack in the bone to a more severe break that could need surgery to repair. If you hit your head, even lightly, and feel dizzy, disoriented, or unusually tired, get medical attention fast.
4. Bone Fractures
The most common bones to break are in your arms, legs, and sometimes your hips. When you land hard on a ladder, your body takes the brunt of the impact, and your bones can snap or fracture. Depending on how you land, a bone can break cleanly or shatter into pieces.
Fractures are painful and often require more than just a cast. Some bone fractures need surgery to realign the bone and help it heal properly. You might need physical therapy afterward to get your strength and movement back.
5. Soft Tissue Injuries
Not all ladder accidents result in broken bones, but even if you don’t break anything, you could still hurt yourself in other ways. Soft tissue injuries are just as common as other injuries. You could suffer sprains, strains, or bruises, stuff that doesn’t always look too bad on the outside but can still cause a lot of pain.
A sprained ankle or a strained muscle can leave you hobbling around for weeks. The pain might not always be excruciating at first, but it can be annoying.
Conclusion
A fall from a ladder at a construction site can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor strains to life-altering conditions like paralysis or traumatic brain injuries. Victims of such accidents should seek medical treatment immediately and consult with legal professionals to understand their rights and pursue compensation for their injuries.
