Forklifts are widely used in warehouses, construction sites, shipping yards, and manufacturing plants. While these machines are essential for moving heavy materials, they also pose serious risks when operated in unsafe environments or when proper safety measures are not followed. Every year, thousands of forklift accidents result in severe injuries and fatalities, many of which could have been prevented.
Determining liability in a forklift accident is critical, especially when a third party, such as a manufacturer, rental company, contractor, or property owner, is responsible. Unlike workplace injuries that are covered under workers’ compensation, third-party liability claims allow victims to recover full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term disability.
The Leading Causes of Forklift Accidents
While operator error plays a role in some forklift accidents, many incidents are caused by unsafe conditions, mechanical failures, and negligence by third parties. Understanding these causes can help victims determine who may be legally responsible.
Defective Forklifts and Mechanical Failures
A forklift is only as safe as its design and maintenance. When brakes fail, hydraulic systems malfunction, or electrical components short-circuit, the operator may lose control, leading to serious accidents. These mechanical failures can be caused by:
- Defective design or manufacturing flaws that make the forklift unsafe to operate
- Poor maintenance or worn-out parts if the forklift is leased from a rental company
- Failure to perform regular safety inspections by a contractor or maintenance provider
If a forklift defect or maintenance failure contributed to an accident, the manufacturer, distributor, rental company, or maintenance provider may be held liable.
Unsafe Worksite Conditions
A forklift must operate in a safe environment, but hazards such as uneven flooring, poor lighting, and congested workspaces can significantly increase the risk of an accident. Common environmental risks include:
- Slippery surfaces that cause forklifts to skid or tip over
- Unstable flooring or potholes that disrupt forklift balance
- Poorly marked pedestrian zones that increase the risk of collisions
- Low visibility areas with blind spots that prevent operators from seeing hazards
If a property owner or site manager fails to maintain safe conditions or warn about hazards, they may be held responsible for a forklift accident under premises liability laws.
Falling Objects and Improperly Loaded Materials
Many forklift accidents result from falling loads, which can cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and fatal crush injuries to operators or bystanders. These incidents often happen when:
- Pallets are overloaded or unsecured by a third-party logistics company
- Materials are stacked too high, making them unstable
- Forklifts are used improperly to carry loads they weren’t designed for
If a contractor, supplier, or logistics provider handled the loading and failed to follow safety guidelines, they may be liable for injuries caused by falling materials.
Forklift Tip-Overs and Rollovers
A leading cause of forklift fatalities is tip-over accidents. Forklifts have a high center of gravity, making them vulnerable to rolling over, especially when carrying heavy or unevenly distributed loads. Factors that contribute to tip-overs include:
- Driving too fast or making sharp turns in a confined space
- Operating on sloped or unstable ground
- Failing to secure heavy loads properly
- Mechanical issues, such as faulty steering or suspension
In cases where unsafe worksite conditions, defective forklifts, or third-party negligence contributed to a tip-over accident, victims may have legal grounds to file a lawsuit.
Collisions with Pedestrians or Other Vehicles
Forklifts are commonly used in shared spaces where workers, visitors, and other vehicles are present. Collisions happen when traffic control measures are inadequate or non-existent. Factors that contribute to forklift crashes include:
- Failure to mark designated forklift zones
- Lack of warning signs or pedestrian walkways
- Forklifts operated in tight or obstructed areas
- Blind spots and poor visibility due to site layout
If a facility owner, manager, or contractor failed to implement proper safety protocols, they may be responsible for injuries caused by a forklift collision.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Forklift Accident?
When a forklift accident occurs due to defective equipment, unsafe premises, or third-party negligence, victims may be able to pursue compensation beyond workers’ compensation benefits. The following parties may be held liable:
- Forklift manufacturers and distributors if the accident was caused by a design flaw or defective part
- Forklift rental companies if they leased an unsafe or poorly maintained forklift
- Property owners or facility managers if hazardous worksite conditions contributed to the accident
- Contractors and subcontractors if they created an unsafe environment by blocking pathways, overloading materials, or failing to follow safety protocols
- Third-party logistics companies if falling loads or improper material handling caused the accident
Each case is unique, and liability depends on the specific circumstances of the accident. A thorough investigation, expert testimony, and review of maintenance records may be necessary to determine who is responsible.
Filing a Third-Party Claim After a Forklift Accident
If a third party is responsible for a forklift accident, injured workers, bystanders, and other victims may have the right to file a lawsuit to recover damages. Unlike workers’ compensation claims, which only cover medical bills and lost wages, third-party lawsuits allow for full financial recovery, including:
- Medical expenses (hospitalization, rehabilitation, long-term care)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disability and permanent impairment
- Wrongful death damages for families of fatal forklift accident victims
To successfully pursue a claim, victims must provide evidence that a third party’s negligence directly caused the accident. This may include accident reports, maintenance logs, witness statements, surveillance footage, and expert evaluations of forklift safety standards. If you have lost a loved one, you may also be able to bring a wrongful death claim arising out of the forklift accident.
Because multiple parties may share liability, filing a claim against the correct entities requires careful legal analysis. An experienced forklift accident attorney can help identify all responsible parties and build a strong case.
Get Legal Help After a Forklift Accident
Forklift accidents can have life-altering consequences, leaving victims with significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. When third-party negligence is involved, pursuing a legal claim can provide the compensation needed for recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a forklift accident, Spagnoletti Law Firm can help. Our legal team will investigate your case, identify liable parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 713-804-9306 for a free consultation.