Forklift accidents are a major concern in workplaces in the United States. According to the National Occupational Fatality Tracking System (NTOF), between 1980 and 1994, 1,021 workers lost their lives due to traumatic injuries suffered in forklift-related incidents. In 2019, forklifts were involved in accidents connected with 79 work-related deaths, as well as more than 8,100 injuries.
Forklift accidents in the United States can be caused by a variety of factors, such as lack of operator training, lack of equipment maintenance, and operator inattention. If you have been affected by a forklift accident, you should contact Conexión Legal as soon as possible by calling 1866 701 1220 or writing to us via WhatsApp so that you can receive the best free consultation, and if applicable, obtain the highest possible compensation from a specialized attorney who speaks Spanish.
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How to sue for a forklift accident in the United States
If you have suffered a forklift accident in the United States, you can file a personal injury lawsuit. The deadline for filing a lawsuit varies depending on the state and the type of accident. In some states, the deadline is two years from the date of the accident.
It is important that you contact a personal injury attorney to advise you on your rights and legal options.
What is a personal injury lawsuit?
A personal injury lawsuit is a claim filed in a civil court of justice against another party, such as a person, business, corporation, or entity whose negligence has caused you significant physical, psychological, and/or financial harm.
In a personal injury lawsuit, fair compensation for perceived damages is sought. To achieve this objective, the plaintiff or injured person must prove fault. That is, that the defendant is the person responsible for the loss and therefore is at fault, whether they committed their fault consciously or not. Do you want to evaluate your case?
Contact us as soon as possible. We serve 24/7 and evaluate your case for free with an attorney in Spanish.
Causes of forklift accidents
Forklift accidents can be caused by a wide variety of factors. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Improper load balancing on the forks
- Horseplay
- Allowing passengers on forklifts not designed for that purpose
- Moving loads that are too heavy for the forklift to handle
- Using inappropriate speed
Most common types of forklift accidents
Common types of forklift accidents include rollovers, accidents involving forklifts striking a pedestrian worker, and workers crushed by forklifts.
The most common accidents with forklifts occur when they tip over. This can happen if the load is too heavy or if the forklift is driven too fast.
Other common accidents include collisions with fixed objects, personnel being run over, merchandise falling from great heights, and object-personnel impalement.
Also review: How long does a workers' compensation case last?
What consequences can a forklift accident have?
Forklift accidents can cause serious injuries or even death to workers. Some of the most common injuries that can occur in a forklift accident include lacerations, puncture wounds, internal injuries, and impalement.
It is important that workers are trained to operate forklifts and that appropriate safety measures are followed to prevent accidents.
Some safety measures to prevent forklift accidents include:
- Wear a seatbelt if the forklift has one available.
- Do not exceed the maximum permitted load weight and ensure that the load is stable and balanced.
- Before lifting the load, place the forklift in neutral position and apply the parking brake.
- Maintain a safe distance from platforms and ramp edges.
Additionally, it is important that workers are trained to operate forklifts and that appropriate safety measures are followed to prevent accidents.
Call now at 1800 201 1220, or write to our WhatsApp to receive free legal advice from our team of experts, who will help you determine liability in your work accident case.
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