Loading Dock Accidents & Forklift Safety

Forklifts are commonly involved in loading dock accidents. According to the National Institute of Health and Safety, almost 100 people are killed and about 20,000 people are seriously hurt every year in the United States as a result of forklift accidents. About one-quarter of all of the deaths result from forklifts turning over.

Forklift Accidents & Forklift Safety 

Many forklift accidents are preventable with the proper safety precautions. Among the causes of forklift accidents are:  

• Ÿ allowing unlicensed drivers operate forklifts;
• Ÿ allowing unauthorized personnel to ride forklifts;
• Ÿ loading forklifts improperly;
• Ÿ driving forklifts with loads at improper heights;
• Ÿ overloading forklifts;
• Ÿ driving too quickly;
• Ÿ improper safety training; and
• Ÿ ignoring safety training. 

Avoiding Loading Dock Accidents with Forklifts 

When working in loading dock areas, forklift drivers should always:  

• Ÿ Slow down if the loading dock is wet or slippery;
• Ÿ Know if there are any pedestrians nearby;
• Ÿ Be aware of the yellow warning line that tells the drivers that they are close to the edge of the dock;
• Ÿ Know exactly where the trailer is;
• Ÿ Communicate effectively with the truck driver;
• Ÿ Wear seatbelts or other appropriate restraining equipment;
• Ÿ Make sure that the floor of a trailer is strong enough to carry both the weight of the forklift and the merchandise that the forklift is carrying;
• Ÿ Make sure that the forklift and load will clear the door of the trailer;
• Ÿ Sound the forklift's horn when going into or going out of the trailer to warn any pedestrians nearby; and
• Ÿ Follow the appropriate safety measures for your forklift if it tips.  

For more information on loading dock accidents, visit our article library. 

When to Hire a Chicago Worksite Accident Lawyer

You should consult with a qualified Chicago worksite accident lawyer as soon as you are able. A qualified attorney can help you identify any third-parties that may be liable for your loading dock accident and help you file a claim to recover compensation. 

The Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. have tried many cases like yours and understand the complexities of worksite injury cases. For a free evaluation of your case contact us today - 312-263-1080