Forklift truck accident claims

Operating any kind of heavy machinery comes with risks but forklifts in particular have a dangerous reputation. According to The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), forklift trucks are involved in nearly a quarter of all workplace transport incidents on average.

There are a lot of measures employers can put in place to prevent these accidents from happening and they are legally bound to do so. If an oversight has resulted in a forklift injury, my team of solicitors can help you claim. Call the team on 0800 707 6899 to find out whether you have a case for compensation.

Forklift accidents are serious incidents and no barking matter. This label applies to any claim for an individual injured while operating or working around a forklift truck. Training and experience are required to use this machinery in the first place so, naturally, accidents can result in injuries of all severities. These include:

• Crush injuries.
• Spinal injuries.
• Head and brain injuries including concussion.
• Orthopaedic and degloving injuries.
• Limb injuries including amputation.

Unfortunately, warehouse incidents involving a forklift can be fatal. If your loved lost their life in a forklift accident, you might be able to make a compensation claim. Me or one of my team will go through the details with you during your free, initial call and you won't be under pressure to go ahead should you choose not to. Call today on 0800 707 6899.

Many things can cause forklift accidents when reasonable measures aren't enforced in the workplace. The below list isn't exhaustive, but features some of the most common reasons for forklift injury claims.

• Unsafe driving conditions: Injury can occur when a forklift is operated on uneven surfaces, in harsh weather conditions, or around obstructions and spillages. This includes in cluttered areas or around pedestrians.
• Inadequate training: Employees can't be expected to operate this heavy machinery correctly if they don't receive adequate training. A lack of advice on proper driving techniques, laziness with enforcing and supplying PPE, and insufficient guidance can increase the chance of forklift accidents happening.
• Malfunctioning or damaged machinery: Forklifts need to be regularly maintained to ensure the safety of those operating them. System failures, overheating engines, and worn-out tyres can affect the machine's stability and efficiency.
• Dangerous driving: Speeding, swerving, overloading or operating a forklift in restricted areas puts the operator and other workers at risk. This machinery requires attention and care.

Taking forklift warehouse accident claims to the big dogs might seem daunting, but my team and I are here to back you up. They have a legal duty of care towards you and should take any necessary precautions to prevent injuries in the workplace. Failure to do so puts them in hot water and means you could be entitled to compensation. Your employment status is covered by the Employment Rights Act 1996 and Equality Act 2010 so, if you're worried about making a claim against your employer, rest assured that you can't be sacked for pursuing the compensation that you rightly deserve.

What are your rights at work?

Sometimes it can be difficult to figure out where the fault lies when it comes to forklift warehouse accidents, but reminding yourself of your workplace rights can put things into perspective. Remember that UK Health and Safety law says you are entitled to:

• Work in a safe environment where potential risks are controlled.
• Receive proper training and the relevant personal protective equipment.
• Use equipment that is regularly maintained and safe to use.
• Stop working if you think you are at risk of injury.

If you feel your employer has neglected your workplace rights, you could have a forklift accident claim.

"Workplace safety laws are there for a reason; they protect you when your employer fails you. Underdog is here to help you understand your rights and rebuild after an accident, preventing you from chasing your tail."

- John Kushnick, Legal Operations Director

If you were injured in a workplace accident that wasn't your fault, you may be entitled to legal support.

Forklift accident compensation won't reverse your injury, but it can soften the financial pressure it has caused. Maybe you needed to take time off work to heal or travel far and wide to seek medical treatment. These necessities can quickly add up and even hinder your recovery. Making a forklift accident claim helps to get your tail wagging again and recoup any losses.

Not to mention, the peace of mind that comes from holding the guilty party accountable. With your legal faithful companions beside you, your claim could improve conditions for fork truck drivers in your warehouse and ensure your accident doesn't repeat itself.

Forklift accident claims are often complex and each case is unique, so I can't give you an accurate figure right away. Your solicitors will be able to estimate a compensation amount based on these factors:

• The type of forklift accident.
• Injury type and severity.
• Any ongoing or past costs associated with your injury, including home adaptations, travel costs and medical treatments.
• Earnings lost from time off work.

After experiencing a forklift truck injury, seeking legal action is secondary to healing up. However, starting your compensation claim doesn't need to be a headache with Underdog. I'll send the hounds after the details. Here is how the process works in five simple steps:

1. Pick up the phone

Give myself or one of my team a call for free on 0800 707 6899 or request a call back. We will ask you about your forklift accident and determine whether you can make a claim. Our advice is free and impartial with no obligation to go ahead.

2. We'll hand you over to our forklift injury lawyers

Underdog is partnered with a network of talented solicitors who have decades of experience handling compensation cases like yours – with proven track records. We'll refer you to your very own legal team and they will take it from there.

3. They'll investigate and submit your claim

Here, you'll give your legal team all the details about your forklift accident, including any injuries physical or otherwise. They will track down critical evidence that supports your claim, such as witness statements, and will even let your employer know that your claim is underway.

4. Coming to an agreement

The other side will either accept or deny liability at this stage. If they admit wrongdoing, your solicitors will negotiate the compensation you receive. If not, your loyal legal team will try to reach an agreement and, in rare cases, take your claim to court. Whatever the response, your legal team will be behind you.

5. Settle your claim

Time for the results. Successful forklift injury claims are settled when your employer's insurer pays the agreed-upon compensation, a portion of which goes to your top-dog solicitors. If your claim isn't settled, you won't pay a penny – but this outcome is as rare as it is unfortunate.