Are forklift accidents on the rise?
January 8, 2024 in Construction Accidents
With recent headlines, it might seem like forklift accidents are occurring more often. According to the latest information from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor (OSHA), around 40 individuals lost their lives, and numerous others sustained injuries during the initial six months of 2023.
While this is on track with past years, forklift accidents leading to construction workers killed in NYC have been in the public spotlight in New York, most recently in November when the operator of a forklift in Midtown Manhattan accidentally crushed his 19-year-old son and coworker at a job site. Earlier this year, a forklift collapsed and seriously injured a worker at JFK Airport.
These incidents are a reminder that construction site accidents do happen, and when they do, it’s crucial to have an experienced construction accident and labor law attorney on your side. Below, the experienced professionals at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. discuss how a New York construction accident lawyer can help you following a forklift accident.
How Do Forklift Accidents Happen?
It is well known that operating heavy machinery, especially in the construction industry, comes with risk. That’s why construction workers and other heavy machinery operators receive countless hours of operating and safety training.
However, accidents and negligence still happen. Forklift accidents can occur in the blink of an eye at construction sites, airports, construction zones, and even city streets. Some of the most common accidents include:
- Forklift Rollovers
- Pedestrian Impacts
- Lack of Operator Training
- Falling Loads
- Truck Falling Off a Dock or Trailer
- Personnel Falling from Forks
- Blocked Sight
- Mechanical Failures
- Crushed by Forklift
About 75 to 100 workers are killed annually in forklift accidents, with a rough average of 87 deaths per year. Of these accidents, crushed by forklift injuries are particularly deadly and often result in death.
What Should I Do Following a Forklift Accident?
Experiencing a forklift accident can be a traumatic and challenging situation, particularly if you experience serious injuries. If you were injured in a forklift accident, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
Once safe, inform your supervisor or the appropriate entity about the accident immediately. Timely reporting can make a big difference when it comes to a successful case following a forklift accident.
Under any circumstances, do not admit fault and contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to help you file a personal injury lawsuit. Experienced legal representation can guide you on your rights, help assess liability, and help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages beyond the limits of workers’ compensation benefits.
How a New York Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help
In the aftermath of a forklift accident, victims and their families often face numerous challenges, both emotionally and financially. While each forklift accident case is unique, seeking legal advice tailored to your situation can make a significant difference when navigating the complex legal landscape. If you or a loved one has been affected by a construction accident in New York, do not hesitate to contact SPBMCC today for a free consultation and case evaluation and explore possibilities for legal recourse.
Contact an Experienced New York Construction Accident Lawyer at SPBMCC Today
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable, full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas, including construction accidents. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in matters such as 9/11-related illnesses, personal injury cases, car accidents, premises liability, medical malpractice, medical malpractice, and firefighter law across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.