Forklift Operator Injuries

Numerous industries throughout Maryland rely on forklift operators to help them safely and efficiently transport heavy goods and products. Even if a person operating a forklift employs all of the suggested safety measures, operating a forklift can be dangerous, and harmful accidents are not uncommon. Forklift operator injuries are often serious and require extensive medical care and time away from work. Fortunately, under Maryland law, workers hurt while operating a forklift may be eligible to recover workers’ compensation benefits to cover their medical costs and lost wages. If you or a loved one sustained harm while using a forklift, it is prudent to consult an attorney regarding what measures you can take to protect your interests. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our seasoned Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys possess the skills and knowledge needed to obtain favorable outcomes in workers’ compensation matters, and if you retain our services, we will work tirelessly on your behalf.

Forklift operator injuries can happen for a variety of reasons, ranging from operator error to faulty machinery. One of the leading causes of such injuries is the tipping over of forklifts, which can occur when a forklift is overloaded, driven on uneven surfaces, or operated at excessive speeds. Workers can be crushed, pinned, or thrown from the forklift in these incidents. Additionally, forklift operators often suffer injuries due to collisions with other equipment, falling loads, or rollovers. Lack of proper visibility and failure to use seat belts are other contributing factors to forklift accidents.

In Maryland, employees who suffer forklift operator injuries while on the job can often recover workers’ compensation benefits. Specifically, the Maryland Workers' Compensation Act (the Act) provides coverage for accidental injuries arising out of and during the course of employment. In other words, they usually must occur while the employee is at work and performing job duties. Notably, volunteers and independent contractors are not covered by the Act.

A forklift operator who meets the eligibility requirements set forth under the Act may be able to recover benefits that can alleviate the financial burden of medical care and lost income due to the injury. Specifically, they may recover medical benefits, including coverage for surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and any necessary medical equipment or medications.

In addition to medical benefits, injured forklift operators may receive temporary disability benefits if they are unable to work during their recovery or must work at a reduced capacity. Employees who cannot work at all may be awarded temporary total disability benefits at a rate of two-thirds of their average weekly wage up to a certain limit. Employees who can work at a reduced capacity or fewer hours may be provided temporary partial disability benefits. Temporary disability benefits continue until workers can return to their job or reach maximum medical improvement.

If a forklift operator suffers injuries that cause lasting harm, they may be awarded permanent disability benefits. Permanent total disability benefits are provided to workers who are unable to return to any kind of work due to their injuries, while permanent partial disability benefits are granted to employees with lasting impairments that reduce their ability to work but do not prevent them from working entirely.

Forklift operator injuries can have serious and lasting consequences, affecting a person’s ability to work and support themselves or their family. If you were injured in a forklift accident, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, and you should speak to an attorney about your rights. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our trusted Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys take pride in helping injured employees secure the compensation they deserve, and if we represent you, we will advocate zealously on your behalf. We have an office in Greenbelt, Maryland, and we routinely represent people in workers’ compensation claims in Hyattsville, Bowie, Rockville, Upper Marlboro, La Plata, Silver Spring, Waldorf, and other cities in Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Charles County, and all counties in the State of Maryland. You can set up a confidential and free meeting by using our form online or by calling us at (301) 441-2022.