Forklift and Crane Accidents

Forklift and Crane Accidents

Forklifts and cranes are essential pieces of equipment for many businesses in various industries. They make the jobs of workers much easier. However, they also increase the risk for someone getting hurt.

Cranes lift people several stories in the air, so they can work on buildings and other structures. Forklifts move heavy objects without the need for manual labor.

Accidents with Forklifts and Cranes

While this equipment can improve productivity and allow work to get done faster and more effectively, it can also present the opportunity for serious accidents to occur, especially if proper procedures aren’t followed. If the equipment isn’t properly cared for and maintained, it can malfunction, causing serious injury.

Cranes come in all sizes and can be either self-propelled small rigs or larger units that are installed on-site. Various factors cause accidents, including the following:

  • Malfunction of the equipment
  • Cables that snap and break
  • Collapse of the arm of the crane
  • Radius of the swing
  • Overloading the basket
  • Operator error
  • Unstable loads

Even equipment that is well-maintained can fail to operate correctly. However, it’s the employer’s duty to maintain a safe working environment. If negligence caused the accident because the equipment wasn’t properly maintained or safety procedures weren’t followed, the victim may have a right to compensation for the accident.

Forklift accidents are an all too common occurrence on construction sites and in warehouses. Thousands of accidents occur each year with several fatalities. Some of the common reasons for an accident with a forklift include:

  • Overloading the weight limit
  • Not securing the cargo on the forklift
  • Malfunction of the forklift
  • Operator error
  • Obstacles in the path or the driver not seeing people in the path

Many accidents are caused by cargo that falls off the forklift because it wasn’t properly secured or it was too heavy for the machine. Forklift drivers may not be paying attention to their surroundings and run over a person or knock into other items, causing them to fall over on somebody.

Severe Injury

Because you’re dealing with large pieces of equipment and heavy cargo, the potential for serious injury is high. Accidents can cause broken bones, head and neck trauma, traumatic brain injury, damage to internal organs, paralysis and even death.

Many of these injuries are long-term and require hospitalization, surgery and rehabilitation. Recovery time can be extensive, months or even years. In some cases, the damage may be permanent and prevent the worker’s return to their job. They may have to find a new line of work because of partial or total disability.

If you or a loved one was injured in a forklift or crane accident at work, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and lost wages, as well as pain and suffering for the injury. You don’t have to deal with the insurance company or employer on your own. Allow Weiser & Associates to fight on your behalf to see justice served. Contact us today at 888-254-4697 or [email protected] for a free consultation on your case.