Forklift Accidents: The Most Common Causes and Risks

Among the various types of forklift accidents, tip-overs are the most common and often the most dangerous. 

A tip-over occurs when a forklift becomes unbalanced and falls to its side, potentially trapping or crushing the operator. These accidents can lead to severe injuries—and even fatalities.

But forklift accidents aren’t limited to just tip-overs, and tip-overs can happen in numerous ways. Below you can explore more important details about forklift accidents, safety, and your legal rights when you’re injured.

Common Causes of Forklift Tip-Overs

Operating a forklift is a dangerous chore that should only be handled by licensed and certified workers. When the forks go under flats or crates harboring extremely heavy loads, tip-overs can and do happen, and these accidents can lead to a domino effect of other subsequent accidents.

For instance, imagine a forklift lifting a crate of slabs of marble stone that are far too heavy for this particular forklift. The forklift tips over, and heavy stone slabs spill out everywhere, potentially damaging nearby property or hurting other workers in the vicinity of the accident.

Here are some common leading causes of such accidents:

• Exceeding Load Capacity: Overloading the forklift can shift its center of gravity, making it unstable and more prone to tipping.
• Uneven or Sloped Surfaces: Driving a forklift on uneven or sloped surfaces can cause an imbalance, leading to a tip-over.
• Sharp Turns: Making abrupt turns, especially at high speeds, can destabilize the forklift.
• Improper Load Positioning: Carrying a load too high or unevenly distributed can shift the weight and cause a loss of stability.
• Speeding: Operating a forklift at high speeds increases the likelihood of losing control, leading to tip-overs.
• Operating on Wet or Slippery Floors: Reduced traction on slick surfaces can lead to skidding and instability.

Preventing Tip-Overs

To avoid a big mess and an even bigger injury, take the following precautions when operating a forklift:

• Always adhere to the forklift’s weight capacity limits.
• Keep loads low to the ground when moving.
• Avoid sharp turns and sudden stops.
• Ensure proper training for operators on handling and maneuvering forklifts.
• Conduct regular inspections to maintain forklift stability and functionality.
• Use forklifts only on stable, dry, and level surfaces.

Other Common Forklift Accidents

While tip-overs are the most common, other forklift accidents also contribute to workplace injuries and fatalities.

Pedestrian Strikes

Forklifts often operate in environments where workers and pedestrians move about freely. Unfortunately, this increases the risk of pedestrian accidents, which can result in severe injuries or fatalities.

Causes:

• Poor visibility due to high loads or blind spots.
• Lack of designated pedestrian walkways.
• Operator negligence or distraction.
• Failure to use horns or alarms when approaching pedestrians.

Prevention:

• Implement pedestrian safety zones.
• Ensure forklifts are equipped with warning alarms and lights.
• Train operators to be aware of their surroundings.
• Encourage workers to wear high-visibility clothing.

Falls From Forklifts

Workers sometimes stand on forklift forks or elevated loads to reach high places. This is extremely dangerous and can lead to falls, resulting in serious injuries.

Causes:

• Using forklifts as makeshift lifts for workers.
• Lack of proper fall protection equipment.
• Unstable standing platforms.

Prevention:

• Never allow workers to stand on forklift forks.
• Use only approved lifting platforms with proper safety harnesses.
• Provide fall protection training to employees.

Collisions With Objects or Equipment

Forklifts can crash into shelves, racks, machinery, or other equipment, causing structural damage and injuries.

Causes:

• Speeding and reckless driving.
• Inadequate lighting in work areas.
• Operator inexperience or distraction.

Prevention:

• Establish speed limits in work areas.
• Improve lighting and visibility.
• Require forklift operators to complete certification and refresher training courses.

Mechanical Failures

Poorly maintained forklifts can experience brake failures, hydraulic malfunctions, or other mechanical issues, leading to dangerous accidents.

Causes:

• Lack of routine maintenance.
• Ignoring warning signs of mechanical issues.
• Use of outdated or defective equipment.

Prevention:

• Conduct regular forklift inspections and maintenance checks.
• Train operators to report malfunctions immediately.
• Replace old or defective forklifts.

Legal Rights for Forklift Accident Victims

Workers injured in forklift accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Depending on the circumstances, you can pursue a claim under:

• Workers’ Compensation: Covers medical expenses and lost wages for workers injured on the job.
• Personal Injury Lawsuits: If a third party, such as a manufacturer or contractor, was responsible for the accident, the victim may be able to file a personal injury claim.
• Product Liability Claims: If the forklift was defective, victims may seek damages from the manufacturer or distributor.

How Morgan & Morgan Can Help

Forklift accidents, particularly tip-overs, are among the most common and dangerous workplace incidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a forklift accident, Morgan & Morgan can provide the legal support you need. 

Our experienced attorneys will investigate the incident, determine liability, and fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Risks Associated With Operating Lift Trucks?

Operating lift trucks, also known as forklifts, can pose several risks to operators and those working in the vicinity. Some of the key risks associated with operating lift trucks include:

• Accidents and Collisions: Lift trucks can cause accidents if the operator doesn't follow proper procedures, leading to collisions with pedestrians, other vehicles, or objects. This can result in injuries or damage to property.
• Tip-Over and Stability Issues: Forklifts are at risk of tipping over if they are carrying too much weight, if the load is improperly balanced, or if they make sharp turns or operate on uneven surfaces. This can be dangerous to the operator and anyone nearby.
• Falling Loads: Improperly secured loads can fall off the forks, potentially injuring the operator or anyone around the lift truck. Falling items can also damage equipment or infrastructure.
• Poor Visibility: The design of some lift trucks can limit the operator's visibility, especially when carrying a heavy load. This can lead to accidents as the operator may not see pedestrians or obstacles in their path.
• Operator Fatigue: Long shifts or repetitive tasks can lead to operator fatigue, which affects concentration and decision-making. Fatigue increases the likelihood of mistakes or accidents.
• Electrical and Mechanical Failures: Like any vehicle, lift trucks can experience mechanical or electrical failures that may result in accidents, especially if regular maintenance and inspections aren't carried out.
• Overloading: Exceeding the weight capacity of a lift truck is a serious risk, as it can cause the truck to lose balance, tip over, or damage the equipment.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Operators may be at risk of slipping or falling when entering or exiting the lift truck, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Similarly, workers on foot around the lift truck are also at risk.
• Environmental Hazards: Working in environments with poor lighting, extreme temperatures, or hazardous materials increases the risk of accidents. Additionally, operating lift trucks in areas with low ceilings or obstacles can lead to collisions or injury.
• Lack of Training: Inadequate training is one of the leading causes of lift truck accidents. Operators who do not understand how to properly use the equipment or recognize potential hazards are more likely to make errors that result in accidents.

To reduce these risks, proper training, regular maintenance, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential for safe forklift operations.

What Should I Do if I've Been Injured in a Lift Truck Accident?

If you've been injured in a lift truck (forklift) accident, taking the right steps can help protect your health, legal rights, and potential compensation. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, some conditions (such as internal injuries or concussions) may not show symptoms immediately. Get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible.

2. Report the Accident

Notify your employer, supervisor, or site manager about the accident as soon as possible. If the accident occurred in a warehouse, construction site, or workplace, there may be a requirement to document the incident officially.

3. Document the Incident

• Take photos or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, the lift truck involved, and any hazardous conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
• Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened.
• Keep records of your medical treatment, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and any therapy or rehabilitation you undergo.

4. Do Not Admit Fault or Make Official Statements Without Legal Advice

Be careful when discussing the incident. Avoid admitting fault or making any official statements to your employer, insurance companies, or other parties until you've spoken with an attorney.

5. Check for Workers' Compensation Eligibility

If you were injured while working, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits, which can help cover medical expenses and lost wages. Report your injury to your employer and follow the process to file a workers' compensation claim.

6. Determine if a Third-Party Lawsuit is Possible

If negligence played a role in your accident—such as a defective forklift, improper maintenance, or unsafe working conditions—you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit against a third party, such as a manufacturer or a contractor.

7. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate whether you have a claim beyond workers’ compensation, and fight for the maximum compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

8. Follow Through With Medical Treatment

Make sure to follow all recommended treatments, attend all doctor’s appointments, and keep track of your recovery. Failing to do so could impact your claim.

9. Preserve Evidence

If possible, keep any safety reports, maintenance records, or training logs related to the lift truck. This information could be crucial in proving liability.

10. Be Aware of Deadlines

There are strict deadlines for filing workers’ compensation claims and personal injury lawsuits. A lawyer can ensure you meet all necessary deadlines.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a lift truck accident, Morgan & Morgan may be able to help. Our attorneys fight For the People, ensuring injured workers and victims get the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.