Forklifts are frequently used for transporting and lifting heavy objects, and typically have the ability to lift objects that weigh thousands of pounds. Individuals working in factories, construction sites, or warehouses may be required to operate forklifts as part of their everyday duties. There are several different types of forklifts that are categorized under different classes; each class of forklifts operates differently and is used for different purposes.
Because forklifts are powerful vehicles that have the potential to be extremely hazardous, it is absolutely critical that anyone operating a forklift receive adequate training beforehand. Sadly, without receiving the proper training, there are a number of things that can potentially go wrong. Forklift operators may not only be putting themselves at risk, but they can put others in the workplace at risk should a forklift accident occur.
The statistics involving forklift accidents are quite alarming: The CDC reported that in a one-year study, it was revealed that there were 38,125 reported forklift accidents across NEISS and SDS. The same source also reports that some of the most commonly reported types of forklift accidents include:
- Workers getting caught between, under, or in objects
- Objects striking workers
- Specific body parts getting stuck or injured; the most commonly reported injured body parts were fingers and feet
According to OSHA and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, there are approximately 110,000 estimated forklift accidents each year, with roughly 80 percent of these accidents involving pedestrians. OSHA has also pointed out that in addition to ensuring all workers using forklifts receive proper training, that it is also prohibited to allow minors to operate forklifts. However, recent reports from OSHA have revealed recent forklift accidents that involved minors. These particular cases, like many other forklift accidents, sadly resulted in fatalities. Some of the most common causes of forklift accidents include blindspots, narrow aisles, and extensive work shifts, which may result in someone operating a forklift when they’re overtired.
OSHA has also reported that shockingly, there is roughly one fatal forklift accident in the United States every three days. With numbers so high, it is easy to see how one in six of all workplace deaths in the United States are directly related to forklift accidents. What’s perhaps even most disheartening of all is the fact OSHA reports that approximately 70 percent of all forklift accidents could have been prevented if proper safety protocols were followed. If the negligence of another resulted in a forklift accident that caused serious injury, you may be seeking monetary compensation in a personal injury lawsuit.
The injuries resulting from an accident of this magnitude can be extensive and long-term. If you’re unable to return to work as a result of your injuries, whether temporarily or permanently, you may be stressed out financially. Although you may already be working with an attorney on a lawsuit, there may be a level of uncertainty when it comes to your claim and when you’ll finally receive your settlement. Take comfort in knowing that your attorney is doing his or her best to get you the maximum settlement, and in some cases, this can be a time-consuming process. Alas, for many plaintiffs, this waiting period can present a number of financial problems. However, there are other options available.
At USClaims, we offer lawsuit advances to those with eligible cases. A pending personal injury lawsuit can feel like an overwhelming ordeal, but here at USClaims, we are here to help bridge that gap between the waiting period and receiving settlement money. Contact USClaims today to learn more about the pre-settlement funding process and to get started.
