[1].2104141245550.jpg)
Forklifts are unique pieces of equipment that must be designed and manufactured in a particular way. Sadly, when manufacturers fail in this duty, serious or fatal injuries may result.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nearly 100 workers are killed and another 20,000 are seriously injured in forklift-related accidents every year. One of the most common types of accidents occurs when a forklift loses stability and tips over. Here are three consequences that may result from one of these accidents.
Worker Crush Injuries
The average forklift weighs about 9,000 pounds. That’s about three times the weight of a standard automobile. Workers who are near the forklift are at risk of deadly crush injuries if the machinery rolls over and topples them. Those who are lucky enough to survive such an event may experience traumatic brain injuries, loss of limbs, or other catastrophic injuries.
Falls from a Forklift
Defective or lacking warnings, alarms, and anti-tipover mechanisms can result in serious and even deadly injuries. When a forklift tips over, the operator or bystanders can be trapped. Tipovers can also result in crushing injuries, head injuries, and amputations.
Bystander Strike Accidents
Workers are not the only ones at risk of injury when a forklift topples over. Bystanders who are passing through an active construction zone may be caught underneath or even dragged underneath the forklift. It is vital that operators maintain eye contact with a ground spotter or a proper line of sight or those nearby in order to mitigate potential injuries when accidents occur.
At Shoop | A Professional Law Corporation, our experienced product liability attorneys are committed to protecting the rights and best interests of those injured by defective products. Our tenacious legal team is not afraid to go up against large corporations or insurance companies. While no law firm can guarantee results, you have our word that we will fight hard to help you receive a favorable outcome.
Your path to recovery starts here. Contact our firm at (866) 884-1717 to get started with a no-fee, no-obligation consultation today.