Many people work with forklifts daily. They are critical to moving heavy pallets of material and navigating construction sites. Yet, forklifts are vehicles that come with numerous risk factors for both those who operate them and those who may be present around them.
For those who work with forklifts on a routine basis, it is very important to hire a trusted and experienced attorney to help you file a claim if you suffer an injury. A Kentucky workplace accident lawyer can help you fight for compensation.
Common Types of Forklift Accidents in Kentucky
As large pieces of equipment, forklifts have very specific requirements that users must follow to ensure that anyone using the system is safe. Forklift OSHA rules are a starting point for these rules. Yet, there are still many instances in which forklift accidents can occur, and when they do, they put victims at risk for serious losses.
The most common causes of forklift accidents include:
- Forklift rollovers: Too much weight, moving too quickly, or other factors can contribute to a rollover. When a forklift rolls, it can cause injury to the operator as well as anyone nearby. Unbalanced loads and inexperienced use are the two most common causes of such accidents.
- Load-blocked sight: Another common cause of forklift accidents occurs when the operator cannot see what is in front of them because the load they are carrying is too tall. Load-blocked sight is not uncommon, but operators also need to have supportive help to minimize any risk to pedestrians nearby.
- Pedestrian accidents: While forklift workers can suffer serious injuries themselves, there are other times when the victim is a person standing nearby. The operator may strike that person because they do not see them or because of careless operation.
- Failing loads: In some situations, carrying or moving loads that do not fit properly on a pallet and can therefore be safely moved with a forklift can cause accidents. Many of these accidents occur when the operator is trying to move or lift items not meant to be managed with this type of equipment.
- Forklift mechanical failures: In some situations, the forklift’s design, maintenance, or function fails, causing an accident to happen. Mechanical issues can cause injury to those who are using them as well as to others nearby.
When a forklift accident happens, thorough investigations into what took place are critical. As a victim, you should know what steps to take after such an accident.
Who Is Responsible for Forklift Accidents in Kentucky?
A forklift accident may occur as a result of negligence on the part of multiple parties, such as:
- The operator: If an operator is acting in a reckless manner, that can cause an accident.
- The owner: Poorly maintained forklifts can cause serious injury to victims when they fail to operate as expected.
- Manufacturers: If the forklift failure is due to the manufacturer’s design or manufacturing process, they could be held responsible for the injuries incurred.
Seek Help from an Experienced Forklift Accident Attorney in Kentucky
For victims of forklift accidents in Kentucky, it is critical to seek legal support when filing a claim. At Gary C. Johnson, Attorneys at Law, P.S.C., we can help you navigate your rights in these cases. Contact us or call our office to schedule a free consultation today.
