forklift accident claims solicitors

Can you claim compensation for a forklift accident at work if it wasn’t your fault?

Yes, if you have been injured in a forklift accident at work and it wasn’t your fault, you can claim compensation. You have the legal right to claim compensation whether you were driving the forklift or were injured by a driver. You generally have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim. It is crucial to demonstrate that your employer failed in their duty of care. Additionally, medical records would be needed as supporting evidence. It is also possible to make a claim on a no win, no fee basis.

Every year in the UK, forklift accidents exceed 1,000. In workplaces where forklifts and large machinery are prevalent, employers have a responsibility to ensure employee safety. If an accident happens and you believe your employer was at fault, you can make a claim for compensation.

If your injury was due to a co-worker, you can still make a forklift compensation claim against your employer, arguing that there was insufficient supervision. The amount of compensation you can claim depends on various factors, including the physical damage and the long-term impacts of the accident on your life.

What is the time limit to make a claim after a forklift accident?

The time limit to make a claim after a forklift accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. If you were under 18 at the time of the accident, a claim can be made on your behalf until your 18th birthday, or you can make a claim yourself between the ages of 18 and 21. If the injury was caused by a manufacturing fault, a claim can be made within three years from the date the fault was discovered.

What evidence is required to support a forklift accident claim?

To substantiate a forklift accident claim, certain pieces of evidence are indispensable. Primarily, you should be able to demonstrate that your employer failed to uphold their duty of care resulting in the accident. Medical records that support your injuries are a crucial part of this evidence.

Additionally, information about the accident itself, including details of where, when, and how it happened, are necessary. Any records in incident books would also be beneficial. Providing your employer’s contact details, proof of loss of earnings, or any time taken off due to the accident would strengthen your claim. If any additional evidence such as CCTV footage is available, that can significantly aid your case.

Remember, you can make a claim whether you were the driver or were injured by a driver. The claim is generally valid for up to three years from the date of the accident.

Can you claim on a no win no fee basis for a forklift accident?

Yes, you can make a claim for compensation on a no win, no fee basis if you had a forklift accident. It is crucial to note that this is possible if the accident at your workplace wasn’t your fault. The compensation claim process requires you to provide proof that your employer did not meet their duty of care, and you must have medical records that support your claim.

What is the annual number of forklift accidents in the UK?

The annual number of forklift accidents in the United Kingdom surpasses 1,000.

Whose responsibility is it to maintain safety at workplaces where forklifts are used?

In environments where the use of forklifts and other large machinery is necessary, the onus falls on the employer to ensure safety. If an accident occurs and it is believed to be due to the employer’s negligence, it is possible to consult solicitors and potentially make a claim for compensation. This responsibility comes from the employer’s duty of care towards their employees.

Why are forklift trucks considered dangerous?

Forklift trucks pose several dangers due to their size and weight, which often make them challenging to manoeuvre. Even minor impacts can lead to severe outcomes. While they are commonly used in workplaces, such as warehouses, the majority of the injuries caused by forklift trucks often impact individuals other than the driver, particularly pedestrians in the vicinity.

Forklift trucks are classified as mobile equipment and thus inherently carry a higher risk. Human error, which can stem from inadequate training or reckless operation of the vehicle, plays a significant role in the majority of incidents. In fact, the Health and Safety Executive reports that forklift accidents constitute almost a quarter of all workplace accidents, occurring in sites ranging from airports to workshops and construction sites.

What percentage of workplace accidents are caused by forklifts?

Based on data from the Health and Safety Executive, forklift accidents account for up to a quarter of all workplace accidents. This includes incidents in various work environments such as airports, workshops, and construction sites.

Under which laws can you make a claim if you’ve been involved in a forklift accident?

If you’ve been involved in a forklift accident and it wasn’t your fault, you can make a claim under several legislations. These include the Workplace (Health Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which requires employers to maintain a safe environment including the safe operation of vehicles. Additionally, under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, employers are obligated to provide adequate training for handling and driving of forklift trucks, and ensure these equipment are in good condition.

You can also mention the Accepted Code of Practice (ACOP) for rider-operated lift trucks published by the Health and Safety Executive. Even if the injury was due to a coworker’s action, a forklift claim can still be filed against your employer if there was a lack of suitable supervision. The specifics of your case should be discussed with expert solicitors to determine your legal right to claim and the potential compensation you may receive.

Can you make a claim against your employer if your injury was caused by a coworker?

Yes, even if your injury was caused by a coworker, you can still make a claim against your employer for a forklift accident. This is particularly true if there was a lack of adequate supervision at the time of the incident. It is your employer’s responsibility to ensure a safe working environment and this includes proper training and supervision of staff. If these responsibilities are not met and an accident occurs as a result, a claim for compensation may be possible.