Safety is Important When Operating a Forklift

Lift trucks and forklifts are commonly used on all sorts of job sites around the globe. Forklifts that are used the correct way can make it simple to load and unload heavy containers, pallets, and other things. However, if the forklift isn’t serviced properly or driven by a professional, serious injuries can occur.

As a worker, you are entitled to a workplace that is safe. If someone else’s negligence leads to an accident, the person injured should not be held responsible. Federal standards are in place to help ensure workers are safe on any job site. If a company does not provide a safe workplace, they may be responsible for any injuries that occur.

Safety Standards for Forklifts

OSHA (the Occupational Safety & Health Administration) has certain regulations in place for operating lift trucks and forklifts, including the following:

• All employers must implement and develop a training program for lift trucks and forklifts
• Forklifts are required to meet design requirements from the American National Standard for Powered Industrial Trucks
• Anyone operating a forklift must be at least 18 years of age
• Trucks cannot be changed or adapted without written approval of the manufacturer
• Approval of the manufacturer is required for counter-weighting forklifts

Common Accident Injuries from Forklift Use

• Back injuries
• Fractured bones
• Shoulder injuries
• Paralysis
• Neck injuries
• Disfigurement
• Neck injuries
• Brain injuries

While injuries are common, accidents can result in even worse than that. Sometimes an accident can lead to wrongful death, or robbing people of their family members and friends. Losing someone to a workplace accident can be frustrating, devastating, and life-changing. Determining who is responsible for an accident and what steps to take next can be challenging. A personal injury attorney can help you determine both of those things.

Taking Advantage of Legal Assistance

If you have experienced an injury at your store or other workplace involving a forklift, you may be eligible to file a claim to seek compensation. If your employer offers worker’s compensation, that may provide compensation and disqualify you from filing against the employer. However, there may be claims you can make against other parties such as the manufacturer if there is a defect or design flaw.

Your best option is to seek a free consultation with a personal injury attorney at Barovick Law to find out what options are available to you. You deserve compensation for your injuries and should have someone on your side to help you get that.