Ladders are among the most common tools found in homes and worksites across the United States. While they may seem straightforward to use, defective ladders pose one of the most dangerous risks in household and workplace accidents. Recently, Werner Co., a well-known ladder manufacturer, announced a nationwide recall of its 20-foot and 24-foot Multi-Max Pro Multi-Purpose Ladders after serious safety concerns came to light.

The recall, announced on August 14, 2025, involves more than 122,000 ladders sold nationwide. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that the locking mechanism can jam and fail to secure the ladder in place, creating a significant fall hazard for consumers. To date, there have been 18 reported falls and 14 injuries, including head trauma, fractures, and other serious harm.

For consumers, workers, and homeowners who purchased and used these ladders, the recall raises both urgent safety issues and potential legal rights for those already injured.

Details of the Werner Ladder Recall

The recalled products are the Werner 20-foot and 24-foot Multi-Max Pro Multi-Purpose Ladders. The affected models are:

  • ALMP-20IAA (20-foot)
  • ALMP-24IAA (24-foot)

These ladders are identifiable by their silver frame with a blue top, a blue side-rail label, and an oval-shaped “Werner” logo next to the words “MULTI MAX PRO.” They also include a distinctive long black rope located on the back section.

The ladders were sold at Home Depot stores nationwide and online at HomeDepot.com between November 2021 and February 2024, with retail prices ranging from $200 to $281.

The recall affects approximately 122,250 units manufactured in China and imported by Werner Co., based in Itasca, Illinois.

Nature of the Hazard and Reported Injuries

The recall notice explains that the ladders’ locking mechanism can jam and fail to fully engage. If the locking system does not secure properly, the ladder may collapse or shift unexpectedly, causing the user to fall.

Falls from ladders are among the leading causes of serious injuries in the United States. In this recall, Werner has acknowledged:

  • 18 reports of falls
  • 14 reported injuries, including:
    • Bruising and lacerations
    • Head injuries
    • Broken ribs
    • Wrist and leg fractures

These are not minor accidents. Head trauma, fractures, and other fall-related injuries can result in long-term disability, significant medical expenses, and loss of income.

Consumer Remedy and Manufacturer Response

Werner Co. has instructed consumers to immediately stop using the recalled ladders. The company is offering full refunds once consumers register and dispose of the defective ladder.

Steps include:

  1. Registering at wernerco.com/recalls.
  2. Following instructions on how to properly dispose of the ladder to ensure it cannot be reused.
  3. Receiving a full refund in the form of a check once disposal is confirmed.

The recall demonstrates that Werner recognizes the severity of the safety issue. However, for those who have already been injured, a refund does little to address the financial, medical, and emotional costs of a serious fall.

Legal Implications of Defective Ladder Recalls

Product recalls highlight a broader issue: consumers trust manufacturers to design and sell safe products. When that trust is broken, victims may have legal claims under product liability law.

Potential claims include:

  • Design Defect: If the ladder was inherently unsafe because of its locking mechanism design.
  • Manufacturing Defect: If production errors caused some units to be defective.
  • Failure to Warn: If instructions and warnings did not adequately describe the risks.

Injured victims may seek compensation for:

  • Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Long-term disability or permanent impairment

For families who lost loved ones in fatal ladder accidents, wrongful death claims may also be pursued.

Broader Safety Concerns with Ladder Accidents

Ladder accidents are alarmingly common. The CDC reports that more than 500,000 people are treated for ladder-related injuries annually, with about 300 fatalities. Many of these incidents involve defective or unsafe ladders.

When recalls are issued after injuries have already occurred, they often reveal how many consumers unknowingly placed themselves at risk. The Werner recall underscores the importance of strong product safety enforcement and consumer awareness.

What Victims Should Do If Injured by a Werner Ladder

Anyone injured while using a recalled Werner ladder should take the following steps:

  • Seek immediate medical care and document all injuries.
  • Preserve evidence, including photos of the ladder, receipts, and medical records.
  • Report the incident to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
  • Consult with a product liability attorney to determine eligibility for compensation.

Taking action quickly is important because statutes of limitations restrict the amount of time victims have to file lawsuits.

Werner Ladder Recall Lawsuit FAQs

What models of ladders are included in the Werner recall?
The recall includes the 20-foot (ALMP-20IAA) and 24-foot (ALMP-24IAA) Multi-Max Pro Multi-Purpose Ladders. They are silver with a blue top and label, and include a black rope on the back section.

Why were these ladders recalled?
The locking mechanism can jam and fail to secure, creating a fall hazard. Reports confirm 18 falls and 14 injuries, ranging from fractures to head trauma.

How many ladders are affected?
Approximately 122,250 ladders sold nationwide at Home Depot between November 2021 and February 2024.

What remedy is Werner offering?
Consumers who own the recalled ladders should stop using them immediately and register with Werner to dispose of the ladder for a full refund.

What if I was injured before the recall?
If you were injured due to a defective Werner ladder, you may be entitled to compensation beyond a refund, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Do I need proof of purchase to file a claim?
Proof of purchase helps but is not always required. Medical records, photos of the ladder, and recall documentation can help establish your case.

Who is liable for my injuries?
Potentially liable parties include Werner Co. as the manufacturer and Home Depot as the retailer. Product liability law allows injured consumers to pursue claims against all responsible entities.

Can families of deceased victims file claims?
Yes. Families who lost loved ones in ladder-related accidents may pursue wrongful death lawsuits to recover funeral expenses, loss of income, and other damages.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
Deadlines vary by state, but most product liability claims must be filed within a few years of the injury. Consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible is essential.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For A Free Case Review

If you or someone you love suffered injuries from a recalled Werner Multi-Max Pro ladder, you may have the right to significant financial compensation. Parker Waichman LLP is a national personal injury law firm currently investigating claims involving defective ladders and serious fall injuries.

Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our attorneys will review your case, explain your rights, and fight to hold Werner accountable for the harm caused by unsafe ladders. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide product injury law firm is ready to assist you.

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