Bossier City Forklift Accident Lawyer

Injured in a Forklift Accident?

Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces in the United States, and forklifts are a frequent source of serious injuries. When operated improperly or without the right safety precautions, these heavy machines can cause life-changing accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a forklift-related incident, Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law is here to help. Our Bossier City forklift accident attorney fights to protect injured workers and their families, helping them pursue the justice and compensation they deserve. 

Contact Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law at (318) 633-0186 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

What is a Forklift Accident?

A forklift accident occurs when a powered industrial truck, such as a lift truck or pallet jack, is involved in an incident that results in injury or property damage. Forklifts are commonly used to move materials, lift heavy loads, and transport equipment across construction sites. While they are essential for efficiency, they also pose significant risks when used improperly.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), forklift accidents cause thousands of injuries and dozens of deaths every year. Many of these accidents are preventable with proper training, adequate maintenance, and careful oversight.

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we understand how devastating a forklift accident can be. From broken bones and crush injuries to traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage, the consequences are often severe. Our legal team works tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable for these life-altering events.

Common Types of Forklift Accidents

Forklift accidents come in many forms, but some scenarios are more common than others on construction sites:

• Overturn Accidents – Forklifts are prone to tipping over, especially when carrying heavy or unbalanced loads, navigating uneven ground, or making sharp turns.
• Crush Injuries – Workers can become pinned between a forklift and another surface, leading to serious crushing injuries or fatalities.
• Struck-By Accidents – Pedestrians on construction sites are often struck by forklifts when drivers fail to see them or operate in unsafe areas.
• Falling Load Accidents – Improperly secured or overloaded cargo can fall from a forklift, injuring workers nearby.
• Falls from Forklifts – Workers who ride on forklifts without proper safety measures may fall and suffer serious injuries.
• Mechanical Failures – Malfunctioning brakes, steering systems, or hydraulics can lead to catastrophic incidents.

No matter the type of accident, our Bossier City forklift accident lawyer can evaluate your case and determine the best path toward compensation.

Common Causes of Forklift Accidents

Forklift accidents often result from a combination of human error, employer negligence, and unsafe working conditions. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Lack of Training – OSHA requires proper training and certification for forklift operators, but many employers fail to provide it.
• Overloaded or Improperly Balanced Forklifts – Carrying more weight than recommended or stacking loads incorrectly increases the risk of tipping.
• Unsafe Driving Practices – Speeding, sharp turns, or ignoring site safety rules can all cause serious accidents.
• Poor Site Conditions – Uneven surfaces, narrow pathways, and cluttered work areas make forklift operation hazardous.
• Mechanical Issues – Lack of proper maintenance can cause critical equipment failures.
• Inadequate Supervision – Failure to enforce safety regulations puts workers at unnecessary risk.

If your accident was caused by any of these factors, you may be entitled to financial recovery for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Who is Liable for Forklift Accidents?

Determining liability in a forklift accident is not always straightforward. Multiple parties may share responsibility, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Potentially liable parties include:

• Employers – For failing to provide proper training, supervision, or safe working conditions.
• Forklift Operators – If their negligence directly caused the accident.
• Equipment Manufacturers – If a defect or malfunction in the forklift contributed to the accident.
• Contractors or Site Managers – For failing to enforce safety standards or properly manage the worksite.

In some cases, workers’ compensation may provide benefits, but it might not cover all damages. If a third party’s negligence contributed to the accident, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we carefully investigate every case to determine who is responsible and how to hold them accountable.

Steps to Take After a Forklift Accident

If you’ve been involved in a forklift accident, protecting your health and your legal rights is crucial. Here are some important steps to take:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions may worsen over time.
2. Report the Accident – Notify your employer or site supervisor as soon as possible.
3. Document Everything – Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any equipment involved.
4. Gather Witness Statements – If possible, collect contact information from coworkers or others who saw the accident.
5. Contact a Bossier City Forklift Accident Attorney – Before speaking with insurers or signing any paperwork, get legal advice.

Contact a Bossier City Forklift Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a forklift accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law is committed to helping injured workers in Bossier City fight for justice and fair compensation.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Bossier City forklift accident lawyer.