Springfield Forklift Accident Lawyer

Injured in a Forklift Accident in Springfield, MO?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a forklift accident at a construction site, you may be entitled to compensation. At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., our experienced Springfield forklift accident attorneys are dedicated to helping injured workers and their families recover the compensation they deserve. We understand the complexities of construction site accidents and are ready to fight for your rights.

Call (888) 287-1046 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation with a Springfield forklift accident attorney.

What is a Forklift Accident?

A forklift accident refers to any incident involving a powered industrial truck—commonly known as a forklift—that results in injury, property damage, or death. These accidents frequently occur at construction sites, warehouses, factories, and loading docks where forklifts are regularly used to lift, carry, and transport heavy materials.

While forklifts are vital to many construction operations in Springfield and beyond, they also pose serious risks when safety standards are not strictly followed. Accidents can happen in an instant and often lead to severe or life-threatening injuries.

Common Types of Forklift Accidents

Forklift accidents at construction sites in Springfield, MO, take many forms. Some of the most common types include:

• Tip-overs: One of the most dangerous types of accidents, forklifts can tip over when overloaded, operated on uneven ground, or driven recklessly.
• Crush injuries: Workers may be caught between a forklift and a wall, column, or other hard surface.
• Pedestrian strikes: Forklifts often share space with workers on foot. A distracted or poorly trained operator can easily hit someone.
• Falling loads: Improperly secured or overloaded pallets can fall, injuring workers nearby.
• Forklift rollovers: Similar to tip-overs, rollovers often occur on sloped or unstable surfaces or due to excessive speed.
• Mechanical failures: Faulty brakes, steering issues, or hydraulic malfunctions can all result in serious accidents.

Common Causes of Forklift Accidents

Understanding the causes behind these accidents is crucial for assigning liability and pursuing a claim. Common causes include:

• Operator error: Inadequate training, fatigue, distraction, or impairment can result in poor decision-making and unsafe operation.
• Lack of proper training: OSHA requires employers to provide comprehensive forklift training, but not all companies comply.
• Improper maintenance: Failing to regularly inspect and repair forklifts can lead to mechanical failures.
• Unsafe work conditions: Cluttered work areas, poor lighting, or uneven surfaces contribute to the risk of accidents.
• Overloading or improper loading: When forklifts carry loads beyond their rated capacity or loads are not secured correctly, accidents are more likely.
• Lack of warning systems: Missing alarms, flashing lights, or horn signals can make it difficult for nearby workers to avoid danger.

Who is Liable?

Determining liability is a critical part of your claim. In a forklift accident, several parties may be held responsible, depending on the circumstances:

• The employer: If safety regulations were ignored, training was inadequate, or equipment was poorly maintained, the employer may be liable.
• The forklift operator: In cases of reckless or negligent behavior, the individual operator might share responsibility.
• Equipment manufacturers: If a defective forklift or part contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held accountable through a product liability claim.
• Third-party contractors: On construction sites, multiple contractors often work together. If another contractor’s negligence played a role, they may also be liable.

At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., we thoroughly investigate each accident to identify every potential source of liability and maximize your compensation.

What to Do After a Forklift Accident

If you’ve been involved in a forklift accident at a Springfield construction site, taking the right steps can protect both your health and your legal rights:

1. Seek medical attention immediately – even if your injuries seem minor.
2. Report the accident to your supervisor or site manager as soon as possible.
3. Document everything – take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any machinery involved.
4. Gather witness information from anyone who saw the incident.
5. Avoid giving statements to insurance companies before speaking to a qualified attorney.
6. Contact a Springfield forklift accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Compensation Available for Forklift Accident Victims

Victims of forklift accidents may be eligible for several types of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Disability or disfigurement
• Rehabilitation costs
• Wrongful death benefits (for families of deceased victims)

Depending on the situation, compensation may come through workers' compensation claims, third-party personal injury lawsuits, or product liability cases.

Speak to a Springfield Forklift Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been injured in a forklift accident at a Springfield construction site, our team at Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. is here to help. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact us today at (888) 287-1046 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards securing the support you need.