Forklift accidents are a leading cause of serious injury and death in the workplace. Every year, thousands of people are injured in forklift accidents, and many of these accidents are fatal.
According to McCue, around 75 to 100 workers are killed annually in forklift accidents, with a rough average of 87 deaths per year — this number has continually increased almost 30% within the last decade. OSHA‘s most recent estimates indicate that between 35,000 and 62,000 injuries occur every year involving forklifts.
The vast majority of forklift accidents are preventable. By taking these precautions, we can help reduce the number of forklift accidents and create a safer work environment for everyone.
What are the main causes of injuries when using forklifts?
There are many potential causes of injuries when using forklifts, but some of the most common include:
– Falling from a height
– Being struck by a moving forklift
– Getting caught between the forklift and another object
– Slipping or falling while getting on or off the forklift
Falling from a height is one of the most common ways that people are injured in forklift accidents. In many cases, these accidents occur when the operator tries to reach something that is too high and falls off the forklift. If you are operating a forklift, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to always use caution when reaching for objects.
Being struck by a moving forklift is another common cause of injuries. This can happen if the operator loses control of the forklift or if someone else runs into the path of the forklift. If you are working near a forklift, it is important to stay alert and out of its path.
Getting caught between the forklift and another object is also a common hazard. This can happen if the operator backs up too close to another object or if someone gets in between the forklift and another object. If you are working near a forklift, be sure to stay clear of its path and avoid getting between it and any other objects.
Slipping or falling while getting on or off the forklift is another hazard that can lead to serious injuries. This is most likely to occur if the operator does not use caution when getting on or off the forklift. If you are getting on or off a forklift, be sure to take your time and use caution to avoid slipping or falling.
In order to reduce the risk of forklift accidents, it is important to make sure that all operators are properly trained and that forklifts are regularly inspected for mechanical issues. Additionally, it is important to create a safe work environment and to follow all safety protocols. By taking these precautions, we can help to reduce the number of forklift accidents and prevent injuries.
Who is responsible if a forklift accident occurs?
If a forklift accident occurs, it is important to determine who is responsible so that the appropriate corrective actions can be taken.
In some cases, the forklift operator may be at fault for not following safety procedures or for attempting to perform a task that is beyond their abilities. In other cases, the accident may be caused by faulty equipment or by hazardous conditions in the warehouse.
Regardless of the cause, it is crucial to identify the responsible party so that steps can be taken to prevent future accidents.
What to Do After a Forklift Accident
If you have been involved in a forklift accident, there are some important steps that you should take to ensure your safety and to protect your legal rights:
1. Seek medical attention
It is important to get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you do not think that you are seriously injured. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. By getting medical attention right away, you can ensure that any injuries are properly treated.
2. Report the accident to your employer
You should report the accident to your employer or the safety manager at your workplace as soon as possible so that they can take appropriate steps to investigate the incident and prevent future accidents.
3. Document the accident
It is important to document the accident by taking photos of the scene and by collecting contact information for any witnesses. This documentation will be important if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
4. Contact a forklift accident lawyer
Finally, you should contact an experienced forklift accident lawyer who can help you to understand your legal rights and options. A forklift accident attorney will be able to help you collect evidence and build a strong case for compensation, and can ultimately be the difference between an unsuccessful workers’ compensation claim and a favorable settlement.
How to Find the Best Forklift Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been injured in a forklift accident, it is important to find an experienced lawyer who can help you to understand your legal rights and options. Here are some tips for finding the best forklift accident lawyer for your case:
1. Make sure that the lawyer has experience handling forklift accident cases
When you are looking for a lawyer, be sure to ask about their experience with forklift accident cases. This will ensure that they are familiar with the relevant laws and regulations and that they have a successful track record of recovering compensation for their clients.
2. Ask about fees
Be sure to ask about the lawyer’s contingency fee policy before you agree to hire them. Most injury lawyers will take your case on a contingency basis, which means that they will only receive a fee if they are able to recover compensation for you. In other words – you won’t pay a cent unless you win your case.
3. Get referrals from trusted sources
If you know someone who has been in a similar situation, ask them for referrals to good forklift accident lawyers in your area. You can also check with your local bar association, Google Maps, or the Better Business Bureau to find reputable lawyers in your area.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you find an experienced and qualified forklift accident lawyer who can help you to maximize your chances of recovering compensation.
Kotlar, Hernandez & Cohen: New Jersey Forklift Accident Lawyers
Kotlar, Hernandez & Cohen – The People First Lawyers have been helping forklift accident victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania community since 1995. We work tirelessly for our clients to ensure they receive medical care, financial compensation, and justice. With multiple board-certified civil trial and workers’ compensation attorneys on our team, we are well-equipped to handle your forklift accident lawsuit.
If you’re in need of a forklift accident lawyer, don’t hesitate to schedule a free initial consultation with our team or call us 24/7 at (856) 751-7676.
