Overturns—when a forklift tips over—are the most common forklift accidents, making up 25% of all cases. They are also the deadliest, leading to 42% of fatalities in forklift-related accidents.
Overloading, improper loading, sharp turns, and operating at speed or on an incline commonly cause forklift overturns. Other common forklift accidents include pedestrian collisions and falling load incidents.
Every year, approximately 35,000 serious injuries and 62,000 non-serious injuries involving forklifts occur in the United States. If you've been hurt in a forklift accident, seek out an experienced forklift accident attorney to know your legal options and pursue compensation for your medical expenses.
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Forklift Overturns
Forklift overturns are the leading cause of fatalities in forklift-related incidents. These accidents occur when a forklift tips to one side or backward, potentially crushing the operator or nearby workers.
Specific causes include:
- Turning too quickly, especially with an elevated load.
- Driving on slopes or uneven surfaces.
- Improper weight distribution of the load.
- Striking low-hanging obstacles or overhead structures.
If you've been injured in a tip-over, improper training or unsafe work conditions may be to blame. You have the right to a safe work environment and proper equipment operation training.
Pedestrian Accidents
About 20% of forklift accidents involve pedestrians, but these incidents account for 36% of forklift-related deaths. Pedestrian-related cases happen when forklifts collide with workers on foot.
Specific causes include:
- Blind spots in the operator's field of vision.
- Lack of proper warning systems or backup alarms.
- Inadequate separation between pedestrian and forklift areas.
- Operator distraction or inattention.
Everyone in a workplace with forklifts deserves protection from these dangerous collisions.
Falling Loads
When materials fall from a truck's forks, both operators and nearby workers are at risk. These accidents can result in serious crush injuries or fatalities.
Specific causes include:
- Improper stacking or securing of materials.
- Overloading the forklift beyond its rated capacity.
- Sudden stops or starts that cause load instability.
- Damaged or defective pallets.
If falling materials have injured you, it may be due to negligent safety practices or inadequate equipment maintenance.
Falls from Forklifts
Despite being strictly against safety regulations, some workers ride on the forks or use the forklift as an improvised elevator, which often results in a fall.
Specific causes include:
- Using the forklift to lift personnel without proper safety equipment.
- Standing on the forks or load while in motion.
- Climbing on or off a moving forklift.
- Lack of fall protection systems when working at heights.
If you've been asked to perform such unsafe practices, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
Crushing Accidents
In addition to tip-over incidents, you or a coworker might also be crushed between a forklift and a fixed object or between two forklifts.
Specific causes include:
- Operators driving too close to fixed structures or other vehicles.
- Poor visibility in congested work areas.
- Failure to use proper lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance.
- Unexpected forklift movement due to mechanical failure.
If you've suffered a crushing injury, you may be entitled to significant compensation for your pain, medical bills, and lost wages.
Forklift Falls from Loading Docks or Trailer
Forklifts can fall off loading docks, ramps, or semi-trailers, leading to severe injuries for the operator and anyone nearby.
Specific causes include:
- Lack of proper edge protection on loading docks.
- Poor lighting conditions.
- Slippery surfaces due to weather or spills.
- Operator error in judging distances.
- Malfunctioning brakes.
Your employer may be liable for inadequate safety measures or poor workplace maintenance if you've been injured in such an accident. Learn more about forklift accidents and how our skilled lawyers can help you navigate through the legal paperwork and processes needed in establishing a claim.
Common Causes and Employer Responsibility
Operator Error and Lack of Proper Training
Your employer has a legal obligation to ensure all forklift operators are properly trained. OSHA reports that 70% of forklift accidents could be prevented with adequate training. Your employer should:
- Provide comprehensive initial training for all operators.
- Conduct regular refresher courses.
- Evaluate operator performance periodically.
- Only allow certified operators to use forklifts.
If you were injured due to an operator's mistake, your employer might be liable for insufficient training.
Poor Equipment Maintenance
Your employer is responsible for keeping all forklifts in safe working condition. OSHA mandates daily inspections before forklifts are put into service. Your employer should:
- Implement a strict maintenance schedule.
- Ensure thorough pre-shift inspections are conducted.
- Immediately remove faulty equipment from service.
- Keep detailed maintenance records.
If your accident was caused by equipment failure, the manufacturer or third-parties could be held responsible for negligent maintenance and product defects.
Unsafe Work Environment
Employers have a legal duty to provide a safe workplace. This includes:
- Keeping aisles clear and uncluttered.
- Providing adequate lighting in all work areas.
- Maintaining even flooring and promptly repairing any damage.
- Establishing and marking clear traffic lanes for forklifts and pedestrians.
If hazardous conditions contributed to your accident, your employer may have violated OSHA standards, which may strengthen your case for compensation were you to pursue a claim against them.
Improper Load Handling Procedures
Your employer should have clear policies on load handling and ensure they're followed. This includes:
- Training operators on the specific load capacities of each forklift.
- Providing proper tools and equipment for securing loads.
- Enforcing rules against traveling with elevated loads.
- Regularly assessing and updating load handling procedures.
If you were injured in an overloading accident, check whether your employer had proper procedures in place and enforced them.
Lack of Safety Features
While manufacturers are responsible for designing safe forklifts, your employer must ensure all safety features are present and functioning. This includes:
- Regularly checking backup alarms and flashing lights.
- Ensuring all forklifts have functional seatbelts.
- Maintaining clear, legible load capacity indicators.
- Promptly repairing or replacing any damaged safety features.
If missing or non-functional safety features contributed to your accident, your employer or third-parties could be held liable for failing to maintain safe equipment.
Talk to a Forklift Accident Lawyer Today
Our team holds negligent parties accountable. Contact Porter Law Group today for a free consultation.
How an Expert Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
If a forklift accident has injured you or a loved one, our skilled lawyers can help secure the compensation you deserve by:
| Determining Liability | We'll investigate and identify all responsible parties, including employers, manufacturers, or contractors. |
| Building a Strong Case | We'll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult experts to support your claim. |
| Pursuing Maximum Compensation | We'll fight for full compensation, including: - Medical expenses (past and future) - Lost wages and earning capacity - Pain and suffering - Rehabilitation costs |
| Handling Legal Processes | We'll manage your workers' compensation claim, explore third-party lawsuits, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if needed. |
Speak to a Forklift Accident Lawyer Today
Forklift accidents can have devastating consequences, but you don't have to face the aftermath alone. If you've been injured in a forklift accident, the Porter Law Group's experienced attorneys will give you the support you need.
We fight tirelessly to help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. You don't pay unless we win your case. Contact our office today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us at our toll-free number 833-PORTER9 or reach out to us online.
You can also email us at info@porterlawteam.com to schedule your case review.
