Workers Compensation: Forklift Injuries

FORKLIFT INJURIES

Forklifts are used throughout the country in thousands of workplace settings, from factories to warehouses, to construction sites and supermarkets. With their ability to move heavy pallets and other materials, forklifts have become an indispensable tool in American business and industry. Unfortunately, they also play a role in thousands of serious on-the-job injuries and deaths.

In the United States, as many as 100 workers are killed each year -- and another 20,000 are seriously injured -- in forklift-related incidents.

Studies show that the equipment itself, as well as the operator and the workplace environment, all have a hand in injuries and fatal incidents involving forklifts. Many workers and employers are not aware of safety procedures or the proper use of forklifts, increasing the likelihood of injury or death. For instance, operators may not be aware that they should avoid turning, if possible, on grades, ramps, or inclines. Untrained operators may not know to stay with the forklift if lateral or longitudinal tip over occurs.

According to national studies, the three most common forklift-related fatalities are: 1) forklift overturns; 2) other workers struck by moving forklifts; and 3) falls from forklifts.

Forklift overturns are the leading cause of fatalities, accounting for one of every four associated deaths. About one in every five fatalities involves another worker being struck by a forklift, while one in every six fatalities occurs when a victim is crushed by a forklift.

Employers can reduce the risk of forklift accidents by providing a safe work environment, proper training for operators, and other safe work practices, including traffic management in areas where forklifts are used.

Employers are required to comply with OSHA regulations and properly maintain their equipment. Brakes, steering mechanisms, control mechanisms, warning devices, lights, governors, lift overload devices, guard and safety devices, and lift and tilt mechanisms must be regularly inspected and maintained. When work is performed from an elevated platform, a restraining means such as rails or chains must be in place, or a body belt must be worn by the person on the platform.

When those safety regulations are overlooked or ignored, the result may be devastating injuries or death for employees operating or working near forklifts.

If you're injured in a workplace accident involving a forklift, or if a loved one has been killed, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits, and you should immediately consult with an experienced attorney. In Pennsylvania, you are covered by workers' compensation from the first day of work and through the duration of your employment.

Contact the workers' compensation lawyers of Munley, Munley & Cartwright with your claim questions. Our goal is to provide exceptional legal services to our clients. We strive to achieve the highest standard of excellence for the protection of individual rights through teamwork and the use of our considerable resources and experience. To learn more about your rights under the workers' compensation law, see our workers' compensation page.

For more than 40 years, Munley, Munley & Cartwright has represented thousands of workers injured in the workplace. We would be happy to offer a free consultation with absolutely no obligation.

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