Forklift trucks are used in a variety of settings, including warehouses, construction, and other sites. Unfortunately, Miami truck accidents involving these types of trucks are quite common, and these Miami workplace accidents can cause devastating injuries. Forklift accidents can lead to Miami head injuries, spinal cord trauma, and even fatalities. According to experts, there are four basic ways to prevent these types of accidents:
1) Risk assessment. Companies using forklift trucks need to carefully investigate the possible dangers of their operations and find ways to reduce the risks of a Miami truck accident. There should be a written plan outlining the possible risks and the steps possible to reduce the risks of a workplace accident.
2) Daily checks by drivers and employees. Employees should check forklifts daily and should be instructed how to perform basic checks. If any employee notices any problems with a forklift, there should be a clear and known system for reporting the problem and there should be a streamlined way for the problem to be handled quickly and effectively. Forklifts with known issues should not be used until they are repaired. Daily checks not only help prevent Miami truck accidents, but they can also help prevent lawsuits against the company.
3) Training. Forklift operators should be carefully screened and trained to operate the trucks correctly. If employees are not correctly trained, the company can be held liable for any Miami traffic accidents that occur due to incorrect education or forklift experience. Employers may wish to provide follow-up or refresher training regularly for employees, especially if newer forklift trucks are purchased or used. Many forklift accidents are caused by operator error or inexperience, so proper training is a must.
4) Correct maintenance. Many forklift accidents are caused by poor forklift maintenance. Like any truck, forklifts need to be carefully maintained by an experienced mechanic so that the machines work correctly. Forklifts in poor condition should be replaced by newer models. Keeping forklifts in good condition can also help save the company money over time, since correctly maintained trucks are more efficient, allow for maximum productivity, and last longer than poorly-maintained machines.
Forklift operators, employees, and the business owning forklifts all have a responsibility to make forklifts a safe part of the workplace. When companies are negligent in providing a safe workplace and a forklift truck accident takes place, injured employees can pursue a Miami personal injury case to seek compensation for lost wages, medical costs, and other expenses related to the injury.
If you have been injured in a Miami truck accident, contact the Flaxman Law Group at once to schedule a no cost, no obligation consultation to discuss your situation. The Flaxman Law Group is conveniently located in Miami, Homestead, and Hollywood, but if you cannot visit our offices the legal team is pleased to visit your home, workplace, or hospital for your consultation. The legal team at the Flaxman Law Group has decades of experience and a proven track record of helping South Florida personal injury victims. As a full-service law firm, the Flaxman Law Group can investigate your accident, find all liable parties, and pursue your case aggressively.