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Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law
Serving Northwest Louisiana for 25 Years 318-633-0186
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Forklift Accidents

Shreveport Forklift Accident Lawyer

Injured in a Forklift Accident in Shreveport, LA

If you or a loved one has been injured in a forklift accident at a construction site in Shreveport, you may be facing medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about what comes next. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, our experienced team is here to help. As your trusted Shreveport forklift accident attorney, we provide aggressive representation and compassionate support to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Forklifts are essential equipment on construction sites, but when operated improperly or without proper maintenance, they can lead to devastating injuries. Whether you're a construction worker, contractor, or site visitor, you have the right to a safe workplace — and to hold negligent parties accountable when accidents happen.

Contact us today at (318) 633-0186 to schedule your free consultation and get the support you need!

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, death, or property damage. These accidents are common on construction sites where forklifts are used to move heavy materials, load and unload goods, or elevate workers. Due to the size, weight, and mechanical power of forklifts, any mishap can cause serious harm.

In Shreveport’s active construction zones, forklift accidents are unfortunately not uncommon, and they often involve workers being struck by forklifts, pinned between equipment, or injured due to rollovers or tip-overs.

Common Types of Forklift Accidents

Understanding the various ways a forklift accident can occur is important in evaluating liability and seeking justice. Common types of forklift accidents include:

  • Tip-Overs: When a forklift becomes unbalanced and tips over, potentially crushing the operator or others nearby.
  • Struck-By Accidents: When a forklift strikes a worker, either while moving or during loading/unloading operations.
  • Falls from Forklifts: Workers riding or working on raised forks or pallets can fall from heights.
  • Falling Loads: Improperly secured or unbalanced loads can fall, causing injury to anyone in the area.
  • Mechanical Failures: Malfunctioning brakes, steering, or hydraulics can lead to loss of control.
  • Improper Backing or Turning: Limited visibility and tight spaces often lead to collisions on busy job sites.

Each of these types of accidents can result in serious injuries such as broken bones, spinal damage, brain trauma, or even death.

Common Causes of Forklift Accidents

Several factors contribute to forklift accidents, many of which are preventable with proper safety protocols and training. Some of the most common causes include:

  1. Operator Inexperience: Lack of training or certification can lead to poor judgment and unsafe operation.
  2. Negligent Supervision: Employers who fail to enforce safety guidelines or oversee equipment use can be liable.
  3. Overloading or Improper Loading: Exceeding the forklift’s weight limit or stacking materials incorrectly increases the risk of tipping and falling loads.
  4. Unsafe Worksite Conditions: Sloped ground, debris, or poor lighting can contribute to loss of control.
  5. Failure to Maintain Equipment: Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to safe forklift operation.
  6. Lack of Warning Systems: Alarms, mirrors, and signals are often missing or ignored.

Who is Liable?

Determining liability in a forklift accident requires a detailed understanding of construction site operations, employment status, and equipment ownership. Multiple parties may be held accountable, including:

  1. Employers: Responsible for providing proper training, equipment, and supervision.
  2. Contractors/Subcontractors: May be liable if they failed to ensure safety compliance.
  3. Equipment Manufacturers: If a forklift defect contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be responsible.
  4. Property Owners: Those overseeing a construction site may have legal duties regarding workplace safety.
  5. Third-Party Operators: In some cases, a forklift may be operated by someone from a different company or subcontractor.

Whether you’re filing a workers' compensation claim or pursuing a third-party injury lawsuit, an experienced Shreveport forklift accident lawyer from Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law can help identify liable parties and seek full damages on your behalf.

What To Do After a Forklift Accident

If you’ve been injured in a forklift accident, it’s crucial to take the following steps:

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, documentation is vital.
  2. Report the Incident – Notify your employer or supervisor and ensure the accident is recorded.
  3. Document the Scene – If possible, take photos of the forklift, surroundings, and any visible injuries.
  4. Collect Witness Information – Statements from coworkers or bystanders can be powerful evidence.
  5. Contact a Forklift Accident Attorney – Legal guidance from the start helps protect your rights.

Our team at Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law offers free consultations, so you can explore your options with no risk.

How Our Forklift Accident Attorney in Shreveport Can Help

When you choose Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, you're not just getting legal representation—you’re gaining a committed advocate. We understand the complexities of construction site laws, OSHA regulations, and Louisiana personal injury law. Our services include:

  • Investigating the cause of the accident
  • Identifying all responsible parties
  • Gathering medical records, expert opinions, and safety reports
  • Handling insurance companies and legal filings
  • Pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more

We’re proud to serve workers and families in Shreveport and the surrounding areas with integrity and dedication.

Call (318) 633-0186 or contact us online today to discuss your case with our forklift accident lawyers in Shreveport.

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