Scottsdale Forklift Injury Lawyer

Scottsdale Forklift Injury Attorney

Forklifts are an essential piece of equipment in many industries, but they are also a significant source of accidents at the workplace. Victims of forklift accidents can be the operators themselves or nearby coworkers. If you have been involved in a forklift accident at work, a Scottsdale forklift injury lawyer may be able to help you seek workers compensation for your injuries.

Arizona Injury Law Group PLLC can use its almost 70 years of combined experience to help you get justice if you are a victim of a workplace accident. Our team is committed to using our knowledge of forklift injury laws to help you get the optimal outcome for your case.

Common Reasons for Forklift Accidents

Maricopa County is a major hub of industrial growth, with many growing industries choosing the West Valley to house their distribution centers. The large industrial presence can lead to increased forklift use and increased injuries on the job. Forklift accidents are often caused by:

• Lack of training. An operator without the proper training may not be aware of safety protocols or driving techniques.
• Wrong workplace design. A warehouse with narrow aisles or uneven surfaces can make driving a forklift challenging.
• Mechanical failure. Defective forklift components or mechanical issues may contribute to accidents.
• Insufficient safety protocols. An employer that does not have safety protocols in place may contribute to accidents.

 Injuries from a forklift accident may include:

• Bruises and lacerations
• Fractures and broken bones
• Internal injuries
• Crush injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Paralysis
• Fatalities

Workers Compensation for Forklift Accidents

Every employer in Arizona is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. Arizona is a no-fault state when it comes to workers’ compensation, which means that no matter who is at fault, employees who are injured on the job are entitled to receive medical and compensation benefits. The three categories of benefits for injured employees in Arizona include:

• Medical expenses. If you suffer an injury at work, you are entitled to compensation for the medical expenses associated with your treatment. This can include emergency room visits, medication, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and diagnostics.
• Loss of wages. Workers’ compensation insurance should cover lost income. The amount is based on the injury and the circumstances of the accident. If the disability is permanent or total, benefits will equal ⅔ of the average monthly wage up to the maximum for Arizona.
• Wrongful death. If a workplace accident results in a death, the surviving dependents may be eligible for compensation for the death of their family member.

While workers’ compensation insurance can help, Arizona has limits for what an employer is required to pay. When it comes to getting the compensation you deserve for a forklift accident, you may want to hire a forklift injury lawyer who can help you understand your rights.

Who Should Hire a Forklift Injury Lawyer?

Forklift accidents can have life-changing consequences for those involved. A person’s eligibility to take legal action depends on the accident and the details involved. Some examples of who may be eligible to file a forklift injury claim include:

• Injured forklift operators. If an employee sustains an injury while operating a forklift, they may be able to file a lawsuit against the party responsible, such as their employer, the manufacturer of the forklift, or even another employee.
• Customers. Some forklift accidents involve unsuspecting customers while they are shopping in a store or walking near a construction site. If they are injured, they may be able to file a lawsuit.
• Family members. If an employee or passerby is in a forklift accident that results in their death, their family may be able to file a lawsuit. According to the NSC, forklifts were the cause of 70 work-related deaths in 2021.

A forklift injury attorney in Scottsdale, AZ has a better understanding of personal injury and workers’ compensation laws and can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.

FAQs About Scottsdale, AZ Forklift Injury Laws

What Is the Three-Foot Rule for Forklifts?

The three-foot rule in forklift safety is a guideline that states that a minimum distance of three feet must be maintained between a forklift and any individual or obstacle. This creates a buffer zone that can help prevent accidents due to falling loads, sudden movements, or the machine itself.

What Should I Do After a Forklift Accident?

After a forklift accident, it is important that you notify your employer of your accident and any injuries sustained. It is a good idea to write down the details of the accident and describe what happened while all the details are still fresh in your mind. After you notify your employer, request medical attention as soon as possible.

What Are Most Forklift Accidents Caused By?

Most forklift accidents are the result of a lack of training, which can lead to rollovers and tip-overs. Operators who are not trained correctly may drive a forklift too fast, which can result in collisions, or they may take sharp turns with an elevated load. Other common forklift accidents include falling cargo, operators falling out of the vehicle, and pedestrian accidents. In 2021, the trade, transportation, and utilities sector had the most forklift accidents, with 9,540 reported.

How Much Can I Sue for a Work Injury?

Whether or not you can sue and the amount you can sue a responsible party for a work injury depends on the individual case. Workers’ compensation often takes care of the compensation you are due, but if you have a case for a forklift injury claim, the amounts vary significantly depending on the extent of your injuries, state laws, lost wages, medical expenses, and who is responsible for the accident.

Contact a Scottsdale Forklift Injury Attorney Today

Finding the right attorney to fight for your rights after a forklift injury can be overwhelming, but we are here to guide you through. Contact Arizona Injury Law Group PLLC today for a free consultation. We can look at the details of your case and use our experience in handling forklift accident cases to help you determine if you have a case and how to move forward.