Jackson Forklift & Crane Accident Lawyer
When a person suffers from a workplace accident, many of these accidents are caused by machinery. Forklift and crane accidents are common types of work-related accidents at construction sites, factories, warehouses, and other industrial settings.
The average forklift weighs about 9,000 pounds. A crane can weigh much more, depending on the type. Given this, a victim of an accident involving these machines can suffer catastrophic injury and even death.
Workers can suffer significant damages in a forklift or crane accident. To compensate them for their losses, they may only receive a minimal amount of workers’ compensation benefits to cover a portion of their lost wages and minimal medical treatment. Make sure you get full and fair compensation from the Jackson forklift & crane accident lawyer at Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC.
Types of Injuries
A person involved in a forklift or crane accident may suffer from these injuries:
- Broken bones
- Crush injuries
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Head and neck injuries
- Back injury
- Amputation
- Wrongful death
Causes of Forklift and Crane Accidents
Forklift accidents can be caused by various factors, such as:
- Speeding
- Riding with the load elevated
- Improper backing up techniques
- Improper turning, braking, or accelerating
- Not warning others about a forklift in use
- Poor communication
- Narrow passages
- Obstacles
- Allowing passengers on the forklift
- Horseplay, such as stunt driving
- Inadequate maintenance
Crane accidents may be caused by the following:
- Improper setup causing collapse
- Contact with power lines during use
- Use of crane outside manufacturer’s specifications
- Failure to follow safety standards
- Lack of training
- Inadequate maintenance
Forklift Safety Regulations
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established a series of safety guidelines for workers and employers to follow to minimize the severity and frequency of forklift accidents. They include:
- Forklift operators must be over the age of 18.
- All operators must be trained and certified.
- All equipment must be properly maintained.
- Forklifts should be examined for defects before use.
- Operators should follow safe operating procedures for picking up, putting down, moving, and stacking loads.
Other Issues
Overloaded machines often cause forklift and crane accidents. A heavy load can cause equipment to overturn. Dropped crane and forklift loads are another common hazard, as materials can pose a threat to workers on the ground.
These issues stem from improper maintenance, inadequate training, and negligence. While employers are often at fault, there are cases where the crane or forklift operator can make a mistake and can be held liable as well. In these cases, injured workers could still receive financial compensation through workers’ compensation benefits.
Contact Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC Today
A forklift or crane accident can cause significant injuries. If you were injured in the workplace, you need someone on your side to help you get the compensation you deserve.
The Jackson forklift & crane accident lawyer at Lunsford, Baskin, & Priebe, PLLC can assess your case and help you with physical and financial recovery. Schedule a consultation by calling (601) 488-3975 or filling out the online form.
