Falls from ladders are among the most dangerous types of workplace accidents, often resulting in serious injuries to the head, spine, or limbs. If you’ve been injured in a fall, a Kansas City ladder accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, determine who may be liable, and pursue the full compensation to which you are entitled.
At Foster Wallace, we’ve represented workers across industries—from construction and maintenance to warehouse and utility work—who’ve suffered devastating falls while simply doing their jobs.
As Kansas City work accident lawyers, we know how complicated these cases can be when multiple parties are involved, and workers’ compensation doesn’t cover everything. We’re here to protect your rights and make sure your recovery isn’t limited by red tape or denied claims.
Common Causes of Ladder Accidents on the Job
Ladder accidents are rarely just “accidents.” In many cases, they occur because of unsafe job conditions, improper training, or defective equipment. Some of the most common causes we’ve seen include:
- Faulty or worn–out ladders: Broken rungs, unstable bases, or defective locks that lead to collapse.
- Improper ladder placement: Placing ladders on uneven surfaces or at unsafe angles.
- Lack of safety equipment: Missing harnesses, stabilizers, or spotters on job sites.
- Negligent supervision: Employers failing to enforce safety protocols or train workers.
- Environmental hazards: Wet or slippery surfaces, poor lighting, or nearby electrical lines.
Whether you fell from a step ladder or an extension ladder, it’s important to investigate the conditions that led to the injury and determine whether negligence played a role.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Claims
Most workers injured on the job are eligible for workers’ compensation, which covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. But it doesn’t provide compensation for pain and suffering or fully cover long-term income loss.
Depending on the details of your case, you may also be able to file a third-party personal injury claim—particularly if someone outside your employer contributed to the accident. These situations may involve:
- Defective ladder design: Filing a claim against the ladder manufacturer.
- Negligent contractors or site managers: Especially on multi-employer job sites.
- Property hazards: If you were working on someone else’s premises.
We evaluate every case to identify all possible sources of compensation. Our goal is to make sure a one-size-fits-all workers’ comp payout doesn’t limit your future.
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
Serious Injuries Caused by Ladder Falls
Falls from ladders often involve high-impact trauma, especially when workers fall from more than a few feet. Some of the most common injuries our Kansas City personal injury lawyers see in ladder-related accidents include:
- Spinal cord injuries: Including herniated discs and paralysis.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Caused by hitting the head on concrete or equipment.
- Fractures and broken bones: Particularly in the wrists, arms, ankles, and legs.
- Internal injuries: Damage to organs caused by blunt force.
- Lacerations and contusions: These can lead to permanent scarring or infection.
Even so-called “minor” ladder falls can require surgery, long-term therapy, and weeks—or months—off work. The physical, financial, and emotional impact is real, and you deserve representation that reflects that.
How We Help After a Ladder Accident
After a ladder fall, you may be dealing with pain, paperwork, and uncertainty about what to do next. We handle every aspect of the legal process so you can focus on your recovery.
When you work with our team, we:
- Investigate the cause of the accident: Reviewing equipment, witness statements, and site safety records.
- Coordinate medical records and documentation: To support your claims for benefits or damages.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: So you aren’t pressured into a quick or unfair settlement.
- Pursue third–party lawsuits when appropriate: Maximizing your recovery beyond workers’ comp alone.
- Keep you informed every step of the way: With clear communication and direct access to our attorneys.
Our ladder accident clients know they’re not just getting legal help—they’re getting an advocate who truly understands how devastating these injuries can be.
Don’t Wait to Take Action
Missouri law sets strict time limits on both workers’ compensation claims and personal injury lawsuits. If you’ve been hurt in a ladder fall, it’s important to act quickly. Waiting too long can result in lost evidence, missed deadlines, and reduced compensation.
You may only have 30 days to report your injury to your employer and two years to file a claim, depending on the circumstances. That’s why it’s so important to speak with a qualified attorney as soon as possible.
Why Injured Workers Trust Foster Wallace
We’ve built our firm around one goal: standing up for people who’ve been hurt and pushed aside. With more than 45 years of combined legal experience and over $1 billion recovered for injured clients, Foster Wallace is proud to serve the Kansas City community and workers across Missouri.
As a Missouri-based injury law firm, we combine aggressive representation with personal attention. You won’t be passed off to a case manager or pressured into a decision. We take the time to understand your story, explain your rights, and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Talk to a Kansas City Ladder Accident Lawyer Today
A ladder fall at work can change everything—but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’ve been injured on the job, we’re here to help you understand your legal options and take action with confidence.
Contact our team today to speak with a Kansas City ladder accident attorney and start your recovery with the support you deserve.
