Injured Ironworker Who Fell From Ladder Sues Oregon Dam Operator

An ironworker injured when he fell from a ladder at a southern Oregon dam has sued PacifiCorp and several contractors, seeking more than $25 million.

The Oregonian reports that the lawsuit says Joshua J. Lang suffered a broken back and other injuries on May 18, 2012, when he was working at the Soda Springs Dam. His lawyer says he fell an estimated 25 feet and now uses a wheelchair, although he can “hobble” for short distances.

The suit filed last week in Multnomah County Circuit Court says the dam was operated by PacifiCorp.

The suit alleges the ladder lacked non-slip rungs and was placed at too steep an angle. The suit also contends that employees weren’t adequately trained about ladder safety.

A call for comment wasn’t immediately returned by PacifiCorp after business hours Monday.