Types of Forklift Accidents

Forklifts play a vital role in construction sites, warehouses, and distribution centers across Maryland, but they also present substantial risks. Sadly, while the types of forklift accidents that occur in workplaces vary widely, they are not uncommon, and when they happen, they often cause debilitating injuries that prevent people from working and earning an income. If you were hurt in a forklift accident, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, and you should consult with an attorney about what relief may be available. The trusted Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys of Foran & Foran, P.A. understand that forklift accidents can lead to life-altering injuries, and we are dedicated to helping injured employees protect their rights, and if we represent you, we will aid you in seeking any benefits available.

There are multiple types of forklift accidents, most of which arise due to a combination of factors such as operator error, equipment malfunction, or environmental hazards. Common types of forklift accidents include forklift tip-overs, which often result from unbalanced loads, uneven surfaces, or sharp turns. These incidents can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones, crush injuries, and head trauma. Another frequent type of accident involves forklifts colliding with other workers or stationary objects. These collisions can result in severe injuries to bystanders, especially in crowded areas where visibility is limited. Additionally, accidents involving falling loads can be devastating, causing crush injuries, spinal damage, and even fatalities.

Operator inexperience or lack of proper training is often a contributing factor in forklift accidents, as an untrained operator may not be aware of the nuances of forklift operation and workplace safety. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, also pose a serious risk to both operators and those in the vicinity.

Maryland law mandates that most employers carry workers' compensation insurance to protect employees injured in work-related incidents, including forklift accidents. Workers’ compensation benefits are available to employees who suffer injuries arising out of and during the course of their employment, and employees injured in all types of forklift accidents are generally eligible for these benefits. Under the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act, employees injured by forklifts can seek medical benefits, which cover hospital visits, surgeries, and rehabilitative care related to the accident. Additionally, injured employees can obtain disability benefits to replace a portion of lost wages if they cannot work due to their injuries.

The types of disability benefits available depend on the severity of the injury. Temporary total disability benefits are granted to workers who are entirely unable to perform any job duties due to their injuries. In these cases, workers are entitled to two-thirds of their average weekly wage, up to the state maximum, until they are able to return to work or reach maximum medical improvement. Temporary partial disability benefits are available for workers who can perform some duties but at a reduced capacity. These benefits provide partial wage replacement to cover the gap between the employee’s average weekly earnings and their post-injury earnings.

If a forklift accident leads to permanent impairment, the injured employee may be awarded permanent partial or total disability benefits. These benefits are calculated based on the seriousness and permanence of the injury. Injured employees with lasting disabilities may receive compensation for an extended period or as a lump sum. Eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits extends to full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees, provided they were performing job-related duties at the time of the accident. It’s important to note that independent contractors are typically not eligible to recover benefits.

Forklift accidents can cause both physical and financial damages that impact an injured worker’s ability to return to their job. If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a forklift accident, it is smart to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney about your rights as soon as possible. The knowledgeable Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys of Foran & Foran, P.A., have extensive experience assisting injured workers with every step of the claims process, and if we represent you, we will help you seek any benefits you may be entitled to recover. Our office is located in Greenbelt, Maryland, and we often represent people in workers’ compensation matters in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, Rockville, Silver Spring, La Plata, and other cities in Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Charles County, as well as all counties in the State of Maryland. You can arrange a confidential and free meeting by using our form online or by calling us at (301) 441-2022.