Philadelphia Forklift Accident Lawyer

A Forklift Accident Lawyer Can Help After an Injury

John Mattiacci has litigated numerous construction accident cases involving forklifts. These accidents have involved collisions between forklifts and single-vehicle accidents, among others.

Recently, John was lead counsel for an injured dockworker who was hurt in a serious collision between two forklifts. The accident occurred at a cross-dock warehouse. John performed an extensive investigation into the lack of proper training given to the operators at the warehouse and how the lack of the necessary site-specific training caused the collision. John secured a substantial six figure recovery for the client.

Forklifts can be invaluable for moving freight and heavy cargo. However, they can also be incredibly dangerous to both forklift operators and to pedestrians. Accidents often involve rollovers, collisions, and hitting a pedestrian. When accidents occur, a Philadelphia forklift accident lawyer stands ready to fight for you.

These accidents are common because of the widespread use of them across the country. Forklifts are a common feature on job sites and are normally found in:

• Warehouses;
• Distribution centers;
• Docks; and
• Shipping facilities.

Sadly, the majority of these accidents can be avoided. Safety begins with proper training. Federal regulations outline the training that a forklift operator must be given before that person is permitted to operate it on a job site.

OSHA regulation 1910.178(l) deals with the training requirements for forklift operators. This training must include what dangers the operator may encounter. The training must be site-specific to the equipment and the job site. In other words, they must be given training specific to the forklift he or she will be using. The operator must also be given safety training specific to the job site, whether it is a warehouse, dock or other location. This training must be done before the operator is permitted to work on the job site.

Operators are required to receive both classroom and practical (hands-on) training and pass a practical “hands on” test of the operator’s driving performance. The forklift training requirement is specific and includes coverage of the dangers an operator may encounter on the equipment and at the job site. More information may be found by looking at OSHA regulation 1910.178(l) pertaining to operator training.

Of course, safety regulations are only effective when they are followed and enforced. Warehouse managers must enforce safety regulations to help avoid accidents. Enforcing the use of seat belts, of safe driving speeds, and requiring the use of a horn when approaching an intersection or corner can drastically help reduce forklift accidents.

John Mattiacci is familiar with the extensive regulations involving the training, operation, and use of forklifts. If you or a family member have been injured in an accident, contact us today for a free consultation.