Published by Stand-up forklifts are used in numerous work settings, primarily to move materials. Each year in the United States, nearly 100 workers are killed and another 20,000 are seriously injured in forklift-related incidents.
Free Stand-up Forklift Injury Accident Case Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a stand-up forklift, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and we can help.
Table Of Contents
What’s the problem?
Stand-up forklifts are highly productive machines designed to travel fast, maneuver in confined spaces, and to raise, lower, and carry loads. The same design characteristics that make the stand-up forklift a highly efficient material handler also make it extremely vulnerable to other hazards. While stand-up forklifts are necessary tools in the modern workplace, they cause many deaths and serious injuries to workers around the country.
Stand-up Forklift Accidents
Forklift overturns are the leading cause of fatalities involving forklifts; they represent about 25% of all forklift-related deaths. National fatality data indicate that the three most common forklift-related fatalities involve forklift overturns, workers on foot being struck by forklifts, and workers falling from forklifts. The case studies indicate that the forklift, the factory environment, and actions of the operator can all contribute to fatal incidents involving forklifts. In addition, these fatalities indicate that many workers and employers are not using or may be unaware of safety procedures and the proper use of forklifts to reduce the risk of injury and death.
Defective Stand-up Forklift Designs
Many stand-up forklift accidents are caused by defective designs, such as the failure of a manufacturer to install a third vertical safety post, failure to install a compartment door, failure to provide operator restraints, or defectively designing the forklift such that it is susceptible to tipping. Many stand-up forklifts that fail the two big industry tests – the weight load test (longitudinal stability test) and the “crush test,” (which determines the amount of deflection into the area surrounding the operator) – are still placed into the marketplace.
Employers have legal responsibilities and are obliged to create a safe working environment for you and your colleagues. So if you have sustained an accident because of an incident with a stand-up forklift due to lack of training, lack of supervision or some other form of negligence on the behalf of your employer, then you are entitled to make a claim for personal injury compensation.
Other injury cases:
- Scissor Lift Injury Lawsuit
- Paper Shredder Injury Lawsuit
- Nail Gun Injury Lawsuit
- Hot Water Heater Injury Lawsuit
FAQs
What should I do if I witness a stand-up forklift accident?
If you witness a stand-up forklift accident, immediately call for medical help, ensure the area is safe, provide assistance if you are trained to do so, and report the incident to your supervisor. Document the scene and gather witness statements.
How can employers mitigate the risks associated with stand-up forklifts?
Employers can mitigate risks by ensuring regular maintenance, providing comprehensive training, enforcing safety protocols, conducting routine safety inspections, and promptly addressing any reported issues with the equipment.
Can a settlement be reached in a stand-up forklift injury lawsuit without going to trial?
Yes, many cases are settled out of court through negotiations between the plaintiff’s attorney and the defendant or their insurance company. Settlements can provide quicker resolution and compensation.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a stand-up forklift injury lawsuit?
The statute of limitations varies by state but generally ranges from one to three years from the date of the injury. It’s essential to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your case is filed within the required timeframe.
Do I have a Stand-up Forklift Injury Accident Lawsuit?
The Personal Injury & Product Liability Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus exclusively on the representation of plaintiffs in stand-up forklift injury accident lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new personal injury cases in all 50 states.