Common Forklift Injuries and Why You Need a Lawyer

Forklifts are dangerous pieces of machinery to be on or around. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, almost 40,000 people are seriously injured in forklift accidents every year. Nearly 100 others die in them. The most dangerous type of forklift accident is when one overturns. These rollovers account for 24% of all forklift accidents. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost 80% of all forklift accidents involve pedestrians getting hit.

Common Forklift Accidents

Levitsky Law Firm is an experienced New York City accident law firm. According to our work injury attorneys, many forklift accidents are caused by operator error. Some common examples of these accidents include:

• Forklifts overturning.
• Being struck between a forklift and a hard surface.
• Falls from platforms on forks.
• Being struck from above by falling inventory or material.
• Forklifts being driven off of loading docks.

Common Injuries from Forklift Accidents
A forklift can travel at up to 18 mph, and they can weigh three times as much as a small car. Here are some common injuries that are suffered in forklift accidents:

• Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries
• Multiple crush fractures.
• Damage to vital organs.
• Damage to vertebrae, spinal discs and spinal nerves.
• Joint injuries.

Whether you are filing a workers’ compensation claim, a lawsuit, or both, navigating the required rules and procedures can be challenging. Forklift injuries are often serious, which can result in significant damages. Insurance companies may strongly defend against your claim, making it important to have experienced legal representation.

Without a skilled attorney, mistakes could reduce the value of your claim. If you were injured in a forklift accident in New York City, contact Levitsky Law Firm for a free consultation and case evaluation. Our goal is to help you pursue the maximum compensation you may be entitled to.