Although forklifts are not commonly associated with fire hazards, they can and do catch fire—especially when powered by propane, diesel, or electricity. When a forklift catches fire or explodes, the resulting burn injuries can be catastrophic. Victims may suffer permanent scarring, long-term nerve damage, or respiratory issues caused by smoke or chemical inhalation. In many cases, these accidents are not caused by the worker using the forklift but by underlying defects, poor maintenance, or third-party negligence.
Determining the cause of a forklift fire or explosion is critical. Burn injury cases often involve product defects, faulty fuel systems, neglected maintenance, or flammable conditions that were never addressed by the party responsible for site safety or equipment integrity. Victims injured in these incidents may be entitled to file a third-party claim against the entities that failed to keep the equipment or environment safe.
How Forklift Fires and Explosions Happen
There are several ways a forklift can ignite or explode. Propane-powered forklifts are particularly vulnerable to gas leaks, while electric forklifts may be at risk of short circuits or battery malfunctions. Improper refueling practices, poor ventilation, or exposure to flammable materials can increase the risk of ignition. Some common triggers include:
- Fuel system leaks or failures that allow gas or diesel vapors to build up
- Forklift battery handling accidents
- Exposure to open flames or sparks near flammable storage areas
- Faulty wiring or charging equipment used with electric units
- Poorly ventilated environments that trap flammable vapors
In most cases, these risks are preventable. A fire or explosion involving a forklift often points to negligence—either by the manufacturer of the machine, the company responsible for maintaining it, or the party in charge of the worksite.
Third Parties That May Be Liable for Burn Injuries
When a forklift fire or explosion leads to burn injuries, liability may rest with one or more third parties:
- A forklift manufacturer can be held responsible if the fire was caused by a design or production defect, such as a faulty fuel valve, unsafe wiring, or a poorly shielded engine compartment.
- A rental or leasing company may be liable if it provided a forklift that was not properly inspected or serviced before delivery.
- A maintenance contractor might be at fault for failing to detect a fuel system leak, worn-out electrical components, or damaged hoses during scheduled servicing.
- Property owners and site managers may be responsible if the fire occurred due to unsafe conditions at the job site—such as storing flammable materials near forklift charging stations or failing to maintain adequate ventilation.
Because these cases often involve technical evidence, such as inspection logs and expert assessments of mechanical failure, prompt legal action is important to preserve critical documentation.
Legal Options for Burn Injury Victims
Burn injuries often require lengthy hospitalization, surgeries, and rehabilitation. Victims may suffer permanent disfigurement or disability, as well as emotional trauma. Third-party claims provide a path to recover damages that go beyond workers’ compensation, including:
- Medical bills and ongoing care costs
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and mental anguish
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Wrongful death benefits if the incident was fatal
These claims can also help bring accountability to those whose actions—or inaction—led to dangerous equipment or environments being used in the first place.
Talk to an Attorney About a Forklift Burn Injury
Forklift fires and explosions are often preventable events caused by overlooked hazards or defective machinery. If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury in one of these incidents, a legal claim may be the only way to secure full compensation and get answers about what went wrong. For a free consultation, contact Spagnoletti Law Firm at 713-804-9306 to discuss your legal options.