Man Injured in Forklift Accident at Old Dominion Freight Line
Forklifts and other machines are often used in warehouses and freight facilities to haul heavy materials. While these machines make tasks easier, they need to be used properly. One wrong move while using a forklift can lead to a serious accident.
A man was recently injured in a workplace accident at the Old Dominion Freight Line facility in Jersey City. The accident occurred on the morning of September 22.
Emergency responders were called to the jobsite after receiving reports of an industrial accident. They found a worker who was involved in a forklift incident and suffering a leg injury.
The victim, an unidentified man, was taken to Jersey City Medical Center for medical treatment. He is expected to recover. Nobody else was injured in the accident.
What to Know About Forklift Accidents
Forklift accidents are among the most common industrial and warehouse injuries in the United States. Forklift accidents often occur due to operator error, poor maintenance, inadequate training, or unsafe environments. Typical scenarios include tip-overs, collisions with pedestrians or objects, falling loads, and mechanical failures. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), improper operation and lack of safety procedures as leading causes, while frequent contributors are uneven flooring, obstructed visibility, and overloading.
Victims of forklift accidents can suffer broken bones, crushed limbs, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death. Many of these injuries are life-altering and result in long recovery periods or permanent disability.
OSHA’s forklift safety standards require:
- Certification for all operators.
- Regular maintenance and inspections.
- Clearly marked travel paths and warning signs.
- Prohibition of unauthorized riders or unsafe maneuvers.
Employers must ensure operators are properly trained and certified. Failure to maintain safe conditions or provide adequate supervision can make employers legally liable for injuries. Workers’ compensation typically covers injured employees, but third-party claims may apply if a defective forklift or negligent subcontractor was involved.
If an accident results from faulty design, poor maintenance, or a defective part, injured workers may pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer or maintenance company. Similarly, if another contractor’s employee caused the accident, the victim may have grounds for a third-party negligence lawsuit in addition to workers’ compensation benefits.
Injured workers should report the incident immediately and seek medical care. A personal injury or workers’ compensation attorney can help determine whether to pursue a workers’ compensation claim, a third-party lawsuit, or both. Documentation is crucial for proving negligence. Be sure to gather as much evidence as possible, including photos, witness statements, and reports.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Jobsites can be dangerous, especially when forklifts and other large machinery are involved. Employers need to have safety gear available and protocols in place.
Protect yourself with help from a Morristown work-related accidents attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff. We can help you understand your options after a workplace accident. Call (973) 455-1567 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
Source:
rlsmedia.com/article/worker-injured-forklift-accident-jersey-city-freight-facility
