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Falling from a ladder can leave a construction worker with anything from minor injuries to serious, permanent conditions. The good news is that in addition to workers’ compensation, the victim may be able to pursue a third-party liability claim.
However, the steps that the victim takes immediately after the accident and in the long term will affect their legal rights. Hiring an experienced New York personal injury lawyer will help protect your injury claim. Find out how Dell & Dean PLLC can assist you.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Fall
If you or a loved one falls off a ladder, you may not be thinking about protecting your legal interests. But what you do in the immediate aftermath is important. The following will help you receive fair compensation for your injuries:
- Get medical attention: This is important not only for your health, but for protecting your rights. If you do not seek immediate medical attention, the at-fault party may blame you for aggravating your own injuries. Even if you think you were not hurt, see a doctor.
- Report the accident: Notify your supervisor or other person in charge so you can document the accident. Do so in writing if possible. New York employers are required to report such matters to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
- Start collecting evidence: To the extent you can, start gathering evidence. Take pictures and record videos of the scene and of your injuries. Ask eyewitnesses for their names and contact information.
- Preserve the ladder: The at-fault party may try to destroy or conceal the ladder and thereby cover up either a defect with it or some improper use. Take pictures and record video of the ladder and consult a New York personal injury lawyer about preserving it.
Long-Term Steps to Take
You also need to be mindful of the potential legal consequences of your actions in the long term. These steps can help you:
- Follow your doctor’s recommendations: Be sure you follow your doctor’s orders concerning work restrictions. Return to any follow-up appointments, take your medicines, and see any specialists to whom you are referred. Also make use of any adaptive medical equipment.
- Document your ongoing expenses and losses: Make copies of your medical records and keep track of how much work you miss. Continue to document out-of-pocket expenses related to your injuries since these can add up as well.
- Keep a record of your limitations and pain and suffering: You may not be able to work the same job in the long term, so keep a record of your limitations plus any career opportunities you miss due to your injuries. In general, you should document how your injuries affect your daily life.
- Contact an experienced New York personal injury attorney: You should take this step early, but handle it now if you have not already. An attorney can help determine the value of your losses and help you seek compensation from liable third parties like the manufacturer of the ladder.
Our Firm is Here to Serve You Each Step of the Way
From your initial steps after a ladder accident to the long-term actions you should take, Dell & Dean PLLC is ready to be your legal advocate. Let our New York personal injury team help you claim the compensation you need to move forward. Connect with us today to get started.
