Forklift Accident Claims
Just under a quarter of transport-related workplace accidents are caused by forklifts. They can cause severe and sometimes fatal accidents, many employees injured by forklifts will need to take time off work to recover, being struck by a forklift is no minor incident it can cause serious injuries and leave the victim with life threatening injuries.
The risk of forklift accidents in factories or warehouses increases when pedestrians or other employees are free to wander around. It’s easy to overlook others in the vicinity when you are busy handling a heavy load which is tough to see past as a forklift operator, which is why employers need to have processes in places and safe walkways for pedestrians. Forklift accidents can be very serious and vary from cuts and bruises to amputations or even fatalities in the worst cases. In an environment where forklifts operate its vital that health and safety procedures are followed and that proper training is given to both the forklift operator and anyone working nearby.
If you’ve been injured in a forklift truck accident you may be able to claim compensation.
What are the most common causes of forklift accident claims?
Insufficient space to manoeuver the forklift around.
Forklifts hitting pedestrians
Loads falling on to another employee
Poor lighting
Uneven flooring or hazards on the floor
Overcrowded workspaces
Employer’s Liability
Many forklift accidents can be put down to insufficient training. Both the employer and employee have a duty to make sure operators are fully trained and able to operate the vehicle safely. Your employer has a duty of care to ensure you are as safe at work as possible.
An employer should minimise the risk by:
Identifying any possible risks in the area’s forklifts are being used.
Maintaining and inspecting forklifts on a regular basis
If there are several forklifts on site, the correct forklift should be used for its designated job.
If your employer has not taken the appropriate steps to reduce the risk of a forklift or any other type of workplace accident happening then they could be found negligent and in the case of a personal injury claim you may have a strong case if they have not followed their duty of care.
How much compensation can I be awarded for a forklift accident claim?
The amount of compensation awarded will depend on the unique details of your accident and injury and will depend on factors such as seriousness of your injury and how much you have suffered consequently. Any compensation payment considers two factors:
General Damages
The pain and suffering you have endured because of your accident is the main factor that determines the compensation awarded. Your solicitor may request that you have a medical exam to determine the extent of your injury and the impact it may have on your health in the future. They will also take into account any psychological damage you have suffered.
Special Damages
This takes into account any financial losses suffered as a result, this may be because you have had to take time off work or maybe in the event of a serious injury you may no longer be able to carry out the job you are trained for. This also includes any treatments you may have had to pay for and includes any travel costs incurred – It’s advisable to keep any receipts in this case to prove any costs you have had to pay out-of-pocket for.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a fork lift truck accident, we recommend speaking to an experienced personal injury solicitor today. Our team of no win no fee forklift accident claims solicitors are on hand to provide advice on your individual circumstances. We offer a no obligation free consultation and if you decide to proceed we will be happy to represent you on a no win, no fee arrangement.
