Forklift accidents can result in severe head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI) that may lead to permanent cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments. TBIs can occur when a forklift operator or pedestrian is struck by falling materials, thrown from the forklift, or hit by the vehicle itself. Even at low speeds, a forklift collision can cause a significant head injury, especially if safety measures are lacking.
While some forklift-related TBIs happen due to operator error, many are caused by unsafe premises, defective equipment, or third-party negligence. When a manufacturer, property owner, forklift rental company, or contractor is responsible for the accident, the injured person may have the right to file a third-party liability lawsuit beyond workers’ compensation.
How Do Forklift Accidents Cause TBIs?
A traumatic brain injury can occur in several ways during a forklift accident. Some of the most common causes include:
- Falling loads – If a forklift’s load is unstable or improperly stacked, materials can fall, striking workers or pedestrians on the head.
- Tip-over accidents – Forklifts can become unbalanced and tip over, causing operators to hit their heads on the ground or surrounding equipment.
- Collisions with pedestrians – A forklift backing up or moving through a crowded warehouse can knock a pedestrian down, leading to severe head trauma.
- Defective safety restraints – Some forklifts are equipped with seatbelts or overhead guards that protect the operator. If these fail due to poor design or maintenance, a TBI is more likely.
Because brain injuries may not be immediately apparent, anyone involved in a forklift accident should seek medical attention right away.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Forklift-Related TBI?
In many cases, third-party negligence plays a role in forklift accidents. Potentially liable parties include:
- Forklift manufacturers if the injury was caused by a defective forklift, malfunctioning brakes, or unstable design.
- Forklift rental companies if the leased forklift was not properly maintained or inspected.
- Property owners or facility managers if the accident resulted from poorly maintained floors, unsafe walkways, or improper signage.
- Third-party contractors if they created hazardous conditions, such as blocking forklift pathways or failing to secure heavy loads.
Each case requires an investigation to determine whether a third party failed in their duty to maintain a safe work environment or provide properly functioning equipment.
The Long-Term Impact of a Forklift-Related TBI
A traumatic brain injury can result in permanent impairments affecting memory, speech, motor function, and behavior. Many TBI victims experience:
- Chronic headaches, dizziness, and balance issues
- Cognitive problems, including memory loss and difficulty concentrating
- Emotional changes, such as mood swings or depression
- Loss of coordination and muscle control, potentially leading to permanent disability
Because TBI-related medical care can be extensive and lifelong, securing fair compensation is critical.
Filing a Claim for a Forklift-Related TBI
Victims of forklift-related TBIs may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment
- Lost wages and reduced future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and cognitive impairment
- Permanent disability and required home modifications
- Wrongful death damages if the injury was fatal
Unlike workers’ compensation, which has limits on recovery, third-party lawsuits allow for full compensation if negligence by a manufacturer, property owner, or contractor contributed to the accident.
Get Legal Help for a Forklift-Related TBI
Brain injuries from forklift accidents can be devastating, affecting every aspect of a victim’s life. If a third party’s negligence contributed to the accident, the injured person may have a right to full financial recovery. Contact the accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm at 713-804-9306 for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.