Most Common Types of Forklift Accidents & Injuries

You may wonder: “What are the most common types of forklift accidents & injuries?” particularly at the workplace. Unfortunately, forklift accidents are more common than you might think. And if you’ve been swept up in the whirlwind of one, leaving you bruised, battered, and facing a mountain of bills, you’re not alone.

Forklift accidents can be daunting since there are many things to consider before even finding out who is liable. For instance, the course of action of a claim may be different if your employer offers workers’ compensation benefits or if a third party is at fault. However, an Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyer can answer all your questions.

Most Common Forklift Accidents

• Forklift Rollover. Uneven surfaces, overloaded forks, and improper turning are all culprits in these accidents.
• Pedestrian Accidents. Forklifts are blind in their back corners, and sometimes, even the loudest horn can’t compete with the whirring machinery. Workers darting across aisles, obscured by pallets, or simply in the wrong place at the wrong time can cause pedestrian accidents.
• Forklift Crashes. Two forklifts, both carrying their cargo, can sometimes clash. These collisions, whether head-on or side-swipes, can send forks flying, equipment tumbling, and operators reeling.
• Falling Objects. Sometimes, objects can fall on the forklift and their operators, causing injuries and property damage.

Most Common Forklift Injuries

• Broken Bones. From ankles twisted in the frenzy of a forklift tip-over to wrists crushed between forks and machinery, broken bones are a grim reality of these accidents. Ribs, legs, arms – no bone is safe when gravity and metal intertwine.
• Head Trauma. Bumps to the head from falling objects, collisions, or even sudden stops can harbor unseen dangers. Concussions, whiplash, and even a traumatic brain injury can lurk beneath the surface, making it crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
• Spinal Cord Injuries. While less frequent, the potential for spinal cord injuries from forklift accidents is chilling. Even a seemingly minor fall can damage the delicate nerves in your spine, leading to paralysis, chronic pain, and a forever-changed life.

Every accident is unique, and your injuries might be different. The most important thing is to get immediate medical attention and start the healing process. And if you suspect negligence played a role in your fall, talking to a personal injury lawyer in Atlanta may be in your best interests.

Steps to Filing a Forklift Accident Claim: Navigating the Legal Landscape with Confidence

While physical and emotional healing is paramount, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial. Here at John Foy Law Firm, we’re dedicated to empowering victims of workplace accidents like yours. However, it is important to notice forklift accidents are very different from car accidents, for example. 

To help navigate the legal landscape, we outline the key steps in filing a forklift accident claim in Georgia:

Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Ensure you receive a thorough medical evaluation to document your injuries and establish a baseline for potential ongoing care. Keep all medical records and bills meticulously.

Report the Accident and Gather Evidence

Promptly notify your supervisor and file a formal accident report with your employer. This document establishes a paper trail and protects your legal rights. Remember, your employer is obligated to report certain serious accidents to OSHA within eight hours.

The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim. Take photos of the accident scene, damaged equipment, and any visible injuries. Obtain witness statements and document any safety violations you observed.

Understand Your Options

Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be entitled to pursue compensation from various sources, including:

• Workers’ Compensation. That provides initial medical coverage and partial wage replacement, regardless of fault.
• Personal Injury Lawsuit. If negligence played a role in your accident, you may be able to sue responsible parties for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Product Liability Claims. In cases of faulty equipment, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer.

Filing a forklift accident claim can seem daunting, but with the right guidance and support, you can navigate the process with confidence. John Foy Law Firm is here to stand by your side, advocate for your rights, and help you rebuild your life after this challenging experience.

Understanding Liability and Compensation Amounts After a Forklift Accident: A Clear Path to Recovery

While navigating the healing process is crucial, understanding your financial options is vital. Here at John Foy Law Firm, we want to empower you with knowledge about potential compensation after your accident.

Recognizing Liability After a Forklift Accident

After a forklift accident, determining who is responsible for your injuries is key. In Georgia, several entities could be liable, depending on the specifics of your case:

• Your Employer. If your employer’s negligence contributed to the accident, such as providing faulty equipment or inadequate training, they might be liable.
• Another Employee. If a coworker’s negligence caused the accident, they could be held responsible.
• Third-Party Manufacturers. If faulty equipment played a role, you might have a claim against the manufacturer.
• Property Owners. In some cases, you can file a premises liability claim against the property owner if the accident resulted from faulty premises or inadequate safety measures.

Navigating Workers’ Compensation Benefits

As a first step, you’re entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, regardless of fault. These benefits include:

• Medical Coverage. Workers’ compensation covers necessary medical expenses related to your injury.
• Los Wages. You receive a portion of your lost wages while you recover, typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
• Disability Benefits. If your injuries leave you permanently disabled, you may be entitled to ongoing disability payments.

Exploring Compensatory Damages

Beyond workers’ compensation, you may be eligible for additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit if negligence played a role in your accident. These compensatory damages aim to cover the following:

• Past and Future Medical Expenses. All medical bills accrued due to your injury, as well as anticipated future medical needs.
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity. Compensation for wages lost while recovering and any reduction in future earning potential due to your injuries.
• Pain and Suffering. Compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you’ve endured and will continue to experience.
• Wrongful Death. If you lost a loved one in a forklift accident at the workplace, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. 

Understanding Punitive Damages

In rare cases, if the liable party acted with malice or conscious disregard for your safety, punitive damages might be awarded. These are meant to punish the responsible party and deter future misconduct.

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Forklift Accident in the Workplace?

The aftermath of a workplace forklift accident can leave you grappling with a whirlwind of emotions: pain, anger, fear, and, perhaps most prominently, doubt. One question might echo through your mind – “Do I need a lawyer?”. While navigating this challenging time alone is technically possible, understanding the advantages of having an experienced advocate on your side can help you make an informed decision.

Here’s why seeking legal counsel after a forklift accident might be crucial:

• Navigating Complex Legal Landscape. Legal proceedings surrounding workplace injuries can be intricate, involving workers’ compensation claims, personal injury lawsuits, and potential third-party liability. 
• Maximizing Your Compensation. While workers’ compensation provides necessary medical coverage and partial wage replacement, it might not fully cover the extent of your losses. A lawyer can assess your case, explore all potential avenues for compensation (including compensatory and punitive damages), and fight for the maximum financial recovery you deserve.
• Protecting Your Rights. Insurance companies might try to minimize your claim or pressure you into accepting an unfair settlement. Having a lawyer representing you levels the playing field, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard throughout the process.
• Handling Negotiations and Paperwork. Dealing with medical bills, claim forms, and legal paperwork can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from injuries. A lawyer can handle these complexities, allowing you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Remember, The Strong Arm Lawyer offers free consultations. This no-obligation meeting allows you to discuss your situation, receive legal advice, and understand your options without any pressure.

Talk to an Experienced Worker’s Compensation Attorney at John Foy Today

The physical and emotional scars of a forklift accident can seem impossible. Bills pile up, pain lingers, and uncertainty clouds your future. But amidst this storm, remember, you’re not alone. John Foy Law Firm is here to extend a steady hand and guide you through the path to recovery and justice.

Our team of dedicated worker’s compensation attorneys understands the unique challenges you face. We’ve helped countless individuals like you navigate the complexities of legal proceedings, secure fair compensation, and rebuild their lives with hope. Contact The Strong Arm today to find answers to your questions and take control of your tomorrow.