What Is the Most Common Type of Lift Truck Accident?

Lift trucks, also known as forklifts, fork trucks, and powered industrial trucks, are indispensable machines used in warehouses and businesses to move goods back and forth and organize them. Although an essential part of warehouses, big box retail stores, and other businesses with bulk products on the move, lift trucks can be very dangerous and are involved in more than 35,000 injuries and about 87 fatalities per year on average. While relatively small, in order to navigate tight spaces, they are immensely powerful to carry large, heavy payloads to and from loading docks.

The machine's power and the cargo's weight combined are enough to make any resulting accident a serious event. If you've been injured in a forklift accident, Morgan and Morgan invite you for a free case evaluation to determine your eligibility to collect compensation. Often, forklift accidents are preventable if the operators receive proper training, safety standards are observed, and the vehicles are adequately maintained. Because of this, accidents are often the fault of someone else’s negligence. Compensation for your damages can assist you with the expenses associated with your accident, such as medical bills and missed time from work due to your injuries. Contact Morgan and Morgan today to learn more.

In this article, we'll share our insights on how to pursue legal compensation for your injury and frequent causes for these types of incidents, along with providing an answer to what is the most common type of lift truck accident, starting below.

The Number One Most Common Lift Truck Accident

The most prevalent lift truck accident involves the machine tipping over. This can happen when the truck's center of gravity is unsteadied. For example, suppose a truck is descending a ramp carrying a load that's too heavy or improperly balanced. In that case, the truck can topple over in the direction it's moving. Sideways tip-overs can occur when the center of gravity shifts too far to the left or right, as in turning too quickly or sharply. Rollover lift truck accidents result in the most fatalities. Generally, accidents like these are avoidable when forklift operators receive proper training. Here are some additional reasons why forklift accidents happen:

Pedestrian impacts - In many business operations, forklifts are used in warehouses or loading docks where pedestrians will be present, often in proximity to the trucks. These accidents are generally the result of operator inattention and failure to observe warning signals and signs. Operator inattention can be exacerbated when employees are not given adequate breaks. For example, OSHA data shows that workers required to work 12-hour shifts are 37% more prone to injury.

Situational awareness is another issue for forklift drivers. When operators don't use care, a pedestrian can get crushed between the forklift and a fixed object. Pedestrian accidents can be reduced if the forklift operating area and pedestrian routes are separated by barriers and signage. Furthermore, the trucks can be equipped with lights and alarms to warn pedestrians of approach.

Inadequate operator training - OSHA rules require every lift truck operator to undergo training and certification before operating these powered industrial tools. However, not everyone follows federal rules. Lack of training may be due to ignorance of the law, but that does not automatically absolve business owners of responsibility should an accident occur. Employers may also push employees to operate forklifts before training and certification to get important work done. According to OSHA, proper training can reduce forklift accidents by as much as 70%.
 
Falling loads - While you may visualize forklift loads as neatly packaged boxes or secured goods on pallets, that's not always the case. Lift trucks transport all kinds of goods, some of which should not be transported without properly anchoring and balancing them. Goods can also tumble off because of missing backrests, bent forks, or when moving too fast. Falling loads are a hazard to operators and pedestrians alike.

Lift trucks falling off trailers and docks - Forklifts frequently enter and exit large trucks to remove cargo from thresholds, which can be very dangerous if the operator isn't paying enough attention or other hazards are present. For example, a semi-trailer driver may fail to chock the trailer wheels before allowing entry, causing the truck to jerk forward while the forklift operator is in motion. Other dangerous conditions, such as slippery floors or damaged trailer floors, can result in a lift truck falling abruptly to a lower level.

Employees falling off forks - Since one of the uses of forklifts is to elevate goods to higher levels, it may be tempting to use the truck as a quick and convenient ladder for employees. However, this is a serious hazard since they are not built for this specific purpose. Severe injuries can occur, such as broken bones, head trauma, damage to internal organs, and even impalement. OSHA-compliant lift cages with guardrails are far better suited for the task of elevating workers when needed.

Blocked line of vision - Lift trucks are heavy machines. When coupled with hefty loads, the danger is doubled. If a driver can't see where they're going, it's an accident waiting to happen. However, being unable to see forward is a common occurrence because goods often block the operator's sight due to height. Operators can minimize the hazard by using a spotter, keeping the fork low to the ground, or traveling backward when carrying a tall load.  

Faulty machinery - As with any motorized industrial tool, proper maintenance ensures its safety. Lift trucks should be inspected daily before operation and regularly serviced. Worn tires and brakes are a safety hazard, as well as any leaking fluids that can hinder braking ability or cause the forklift to slide.

Crushed by lift truck - Pedestrians are at risk of getting crushed or pinned down by a forklift if the operator doesn't pay attention. An injury can occur because of the weight and force of the machine or from falling goods. The operator is also at risk if weighty loads shift loose onto the cab. These accidents often result in death.

Emissions poisoning - Since the most widely used forklifts use combustion engines, there is a danger of emission poisoning, especially in small, tight spaces such as semi-trailers. Business owners should invest in ventilation systems and carbon monoxide monitors to avoid serious employee injuries.