New York Forklift Accident Lawyer
In a warehouse or on a construction jobsite, there may be workers operating forklifts. Forklifts are great for moving awkward and heavy materials. They can also be used to raise, lower, or move large objects such as pallets, crates, boxes, and other containers.
However, operating a forklift is not an easy task. Drivers need to have proper certification. When a person does not know how to properly drive a forklift, serious accidents can occur.
One wrong move can cause a driver or someone else to be injured. When this happens, it’s important for the victim to receive the compensation they need to pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. The New York forklift accident lawyers from Cohan Law Firm can assist you in this regard.
How Forklift Accidents Occur
Forklift crashes are common. They can happen in the following ways:
- Rollovers. Rollovers are the most common type of forklift accident. They can be caused by turning too quickly, hitting an object at high speeds, driving with the load elevated, and driving on inclines or uneven surfaces. Overweight and unbalanced loads can also cause rollovers. You can prevent them by slowing down, especially around corners, exercising caution on uneven surfaces, and keeping the load low to the ground.
- Lack of training. Companies often put workers behind the wheel of a forklift without proper training. This is because they are trying to cut corners. All forklift operators should take training approved by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This training can reduce accidents by as much as 70%.
- Falling loads. Carrying a load with a forklift is not always easy. Sometimes boxes and pallets can be awkward to move. If not properly secured, a load can fall off the forks, causing injuries to nearby pedestrians. The impact can also affect the operator. To prevent these accidents, be sure to center the load. Also, don’t carry loose or damaged objects.
- Falls to lower levels. Sometimes forklifts have to cross thresholds. They may have to move in and out of trailers and between various areas of a warehouse. Debris, slippery floors, and damaged areas can cause a forklift to fall to a lower level. To prevent these accidents, the truck’s wheels should be locked to prevent rollaways. Also, any substances on the floor should be cleaned up promptly.
- Crush accidents. Unfortunately, pedestrians can be crushed by forklifts. This is often due to operator inattention while backing up or materials falling off the forks. You can prevent these crashes by always scanning your surroundings and making sure loads are secure.
Contact Cohan Law Firm Today
Forklift accidents can happen in many ways. One wrong move can cause serious or fatal crashes.
Was your forklift accident your fault? Or is your employer liable? Seek legal help from a New York forklift accidents lawyer from Cohan Law Firm. Count on us to help prove your case. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call (855) 855-0321.
