Forklifts are a mainstay in many work environments, including retail, manufacturing and warehousing operations. Designed to move and lift heavy loads, these vehicles can cause serious or catastrophic injuries when operated improperly. Some models weigh several tons and can move at speeds up to 20 miles per hour, making them extremely hazardous if their load or the vehicle itself becomes unstable.
If you or a family member was injured in a forklift accident, it’s important to know your options for getting all the workers’ compensation benefits you need and deserve. In some cases, personal injury damages may be claimed in addition to workers’ compensation. The attorneys of the Springfield-based law firm of Hall Ansley, P.C. combine local experience with a world of knowledge about injury accidents in the workplace. We can help you meet the exacting deadlines of the state’s workers’ compensation program, strengthen your claim with medical evidence of your injuries, and defend your case if it is denied. Our firm has recovered tens of millions of dollars for clients, and we would be honored to discuss your case with you.
Causes Of Forklift Accidents And Injuries
Forklifts can cause serious injuries to both bystanders and drivers. The vehicles can tip over with an elevated load or drop their load. They can hit overhead objects – such as lights or fans – or run over debris in their driving path. Improperly trained drivers can drive off a dock or fail to block the wheels of a forklift while delivering a load. Distracted or inattentive drivers may collide with another forklift or another worksite vehicle.
These incidents can cause catastrophic or fatal injuries, including:
- Foot, ankle or leg injuries
- Spinal cord, neck or head injuries
- Arm and shoulder injuries
- Crushing or pinning a worker between the forklift and a surface
Whatever the severity of your injury may be, our firm will fight for the benefits you need to support your recovery and provide for your family. If the forklift accident was caused by a defective part or involved a third-party contractor, we will explore the possibility of a personal injury lawsuit to deliver additional compensation.
Do Not Wait To Get Help
Time is of the essence in workers’ compensation cases. Discuss your accident today with an attorney from Hall Ansley, P.C. Call our offices at 417-429-1372 or use our email contact form. We can help.