Securing Fair Compensation following a Forklift Injury
Workers are protected against forklift accidents by a series of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. When an employer violates these laws and an employee is injured, the victim may pursue damages. In other cases, a manufacturer might be responsible if a faulty part led to the incident. Attorney David A. Cardon will work to establish liability for the accident and pursue nothing less than fair compensation that helps you heal from your injuries. Cardon Law in Virginia, VA, has been serving justice to accident victims in the community for over 20 years. Call (757) 306-9060 or schedule a free consultation online to learn more.
Causes of Forklift Injuries
Forklift fatalities and injuries are often avoidable if safety precautions had been followed. The top factors contributing to forklift accidents include:
- Tipping caused by improperly balanced load
- Worker becomes stuck between two vehicles
- Improper daily inspection
- Faulty equipment
- Worker becomes stuck between vehicle and surface
- Worker is run over or hit by forklift
- Struck by falling materials
- Improper site-specific training
Improper training is the single largest factor contributing to forklift injuries.
OSHA Regulations
OSHA has established detailed regulations for operating powered industrial trucks (PITs), which include all types of material-handling vehicles as outlined at 29 CFR 1910.178. These regulations provide specific designations for PITs based on the power source type and safeguards. A variety of other topics are covered, including operation, maintenance, and inspections.
Mr. Cardon has fought for construction accident victims' rights to fair compensation for over 20 years.
Operator training is another key part of the regulations. OSHA mandates operator training for each type of PIT they will be operating, including any attachments like man lifts or drum attachments. Training must also include site-specific conditions in which the operator will be operating the vehicle, such as surface conditions, hazardous locations, ramps and slopes, and pedestrian traffic.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Attempting to represent yourself after a workplace injury, or relying on counsel without directly relevant experience, means taking a chance with your future. A knowledgeable lawyer will have an in-depth understanding of personal injury law, construction site safety requirements, and OSHA forklift regulations.
Employers and insurance agencies will do all they can to deny claims and undervalue what victims are due. A reputable attorney can handle all opposing counsel and insurance agency correspondence, effectively counter-argue, and secure clients the full damages they are owed. Your attorney can also guide you towards appropriate medical care for your injuries.
Damages for your accident could include all current and future losses relating to:
- Healthcare, including emergency services, surgeries, doctor’s visits, medications, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages from time off of work
- Emotional pain and suffering
The team at Cardon Law will collect all of the evidence necessary to argue that your employer or another party is liable for your accident.
Contact Cardon Law Today
Mr. Cardon has fought for construction accident victims' rights to fair compensation for over 20 years. Find out more about whether you have a personal injury case by calling his office today at (757) 306-9060 or using an online form.
