I was on a ladder that was secured and it suddenly retracted on me and i fell shattered ankle, broke both bones in leg. this was in Feb, 2011.

You might have a products liability case against the manufacture of the latter if it was manufactured or designed to effectively. I do not know what the statute of limitations is in Alabama. In New Jersey, it is two years from the date of the accident. You should contact a local personal injury attorney will provide you with a free consultation and advise you whether he thinks you have a viable case.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com.