3 Tips to Help Avoid Forklift Accidents in Southern California
Forklift accidents can lead to serious injuries for those involved.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), forklift accidents were the source of 70 work-related deaths in 2021 and 7,290 nonfatal injuries involving days away from work in 2020.
Forklifts are generally used in warehouses and construction sites. They include a platform at the front, and they can be both raised and lowered to lift heavy materials and transport these materials from one place to another.
In California, forklift operators are required to get a certification before applying to any jobs. Even with proper training or certification, forklift accidents are still a large possibility.
There are a number of potential forklift accidents that can lead to an injury, including:
- The forklift can tip over
- A driver may crash the forklift
- The driver can accidentally drop materials from the forklift onto another person
- A forklift can get caught on another object
- Mechanical or part failure
- Other workers can be run over by the forklift
How can one prevent forklift accidents? While these incidents are oftentimes unpredictable, there are steps operators can take to help with safety:
Keep the warehouse or construction area clean and organized – having a well-maintained work area can help prevent potential collisions with other objects. Making a clear path helps the driver from distractions surrounding the forklift as they operate the machine.
This includes not only objects, but also keeping others in the area aware of the forklift in their presence. This can stop coworkers from being hit by a forklift.
Don’t rush – operating a forklift requires time and precision. A lack of patience can lead to errors, and even injuries.
Think of it like chopping a vegetable. Even the most seasoned chefs take their time to properly cut cucumbers or tomatoes. Without doing so, they run the risk of injuring themselves.
Even if it seems like they are chopping fast, it’s usually due to experience behind the knife.
Keep up on training – one of the best ways to prevent forklift accidents is to always stay up on proper training for forklift operation. Rules can change, and even if they don’t, it’s not a bad idea to refresh employees on proper forklift control every year.
Most jobs require a yearly check in on certain operations. Even the most seasoned forklift operators can always use a refresher to help them properly drive a forklift.
For construction sites, OSHA even has a fatal four list of construction hazards. Avoiding them can greatly help with safety.
Even with proper training and execution, forklift accidents are still a prevalent workplace injury. Some of the most common injuries stemming from forklift accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Back or neck injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Muscle tears
- Hand or wrist injuries
- Foot and ankle injuries
- Paralysis
- Wrongful death
If you were injured at work during an accident with a forklift, workers’ compensation can provide benefits for injuries on the job while performing job related tasks.
Not only does California workers’ comp cover two-thirds of your pre-tax gross wage, you may be able to receive other benefits, including payment for medical expenses, long-term disability (if applicable), as well as reimbursement for job retraining.
Just because you are injured on the job does not mean your workers’ comp claim will go smoothly. It’s not rare for claims to be denied.
You know what happened. You have proof.
Let the LA Workers’ comp attorneys at C&B Law Group help.
In a little over five years as a firm, our attorneys have amassed a 99 percent success rate at settling cases. Our five-star reviews showcase our dedication to clients.
We have a team dedicated to workers’ compensation. Their passion, determination, and thoughtfulness are qualities they will use to help you successfully in a claim.
Don’t let adjusters or insurance complicate your life following a forklift accident. Let C&B Law Group help.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
