Common Types of Lift Truck Accidents

Lift trucks, commonly referred to as forklifts, play a crucial role in moving heavy materials but also pose significant risks when not operated safely. Every year, thousands of workers are injured or killed in the following types of lift truck accidents. In just 2021 and 2022, there were a reported 73 total deaths and 15,480 DAFW (Days Away From Work) accidents that occurred due to forklifts.

Tip-Over Accidents

Tip-overs are among the most dangerous types of lift truck accidents. These occur when the lift truck becomes unbalanced and falls over, either forward or to the side. Common causes include:

• Overloading the lift truck beyond its rated capacity, which shifts the center of gravity.
• Turning too quickly or navigating sharp corners at high speeds, particularly when carrying a load.
• Operating on uneven surfaces or inclines, which can destabilize the truck.

When a lift truck tips over, operators may panic and attempt to jump out, often resulting in them being crushed by the falling machine. The safest practice during a tip-over is to remain in the cab with your seatbelt fastened and brace yourself.

Collisions

Collisions between lift trucks and objects, other vehicles, or pedestrians are another common type of accident. These accidents can happen for several reasons:

• Poor visibility due to high stacks of materials or obstructions in the workplace can cause the operator to misjudge distances or miss obstacles.
• Speeding in confined spaces or areas with high foot traffic.
• Inadequate training or inexperience can lead to errors in judgment, such as taking turns too sharply or miscalculating the stopping distance.

To prevent collisions, it is crucial that there is proper signage, operators are well-trained, and work areas well-lit and organized.

Falling Loads

Improperly secured loads are another major cause of accidents. When loads are not balanced or properly positioned on the forks or lift, they can fall off, endangering the operator and anyone nearby. Common causes of falling loads include:

• Overloading the truck beyond its capacity, which causes the forks to drop or the load to become unstable.
• Failing to center the load on the forks, resulting in an imbalance.
• Lifting loads too high, making them prone to tipping off.

Ensuring that loads are properly secured and positioned can significantly reduce the risk of falling loads. Operators should also be extra cautious when lifting and lowering loads, especially in crowded or confined spaces.

Pedestrian Accidents

Lift trucks often operate in environments where workers and pedestrians are present, such as warehouses and distribution centers. Accidents involving pedestrians are typically the result of:

• Lack of communication between operators and nearby workers.
• Inadequate safety protocols, such as not having clearly marked pedestrian zones.
• Distracted operators or pedestrians who are unaware of their surroundings.

To prevent these accidents, there should be clear pathways for pedestrians. Warning systems such as alarms and lights should be used, and operators must be trained to be constantly vigilant of their surroundings.

Rollovers

Lift truck rollovers are similar to tip-overs but often occur due to different factors. These include:

• Driving on uneven terrain or improperly maintained surfaces, can cause the forklift to lose stability.
• Turning too sharply when the lift is elevated.
• Uneven weight distribution, particularly when the load is too high or improperly secured.

Operators should avoid making sudden moves or sharp turns, especially when carrying heavy or elevated loads, and always maintain a stable, low speed.

What To Do If You Get in an Accident: Take Legal Action through a Work Injury or Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has suffered from an injury or fatality from a forklift accident and are uncertain about what to do, reaching out to an experienced and knowledgeable Philadelphia work injury attorney would be beneficial in the recovery and compensation process. They will guide you through the process smoothly. Forklift accidents occur very often within the workplace, and you never know if you or a loved one will need a step in the right direction to take action. If you have sustained a forklift injury out in public and not on the clock in a work environment, contacting an experienced Philadelphia car accident attorney would be a great option as well. Taking legal action either way is an overall advantageous approach if an individual desires compensation from a forklift accident.