Allentown Lawyer for Forklifts Injuries at Work

Forklifts are inherently dangerous machines. They have elevated centers of gravity and rear-wheel steering, making them prone to tipping over when turning or navigating uneven terrain. Additionally, the forks of the forklift can pose a significant hazard, with the potential to cause serious harm through punctures, lacerations, and crush injuries.

Workers’ Compensation benefits are available to employees who sustain forklift injuries at work in Allentown, PA. These benefits may reimburse claimants for both medical bills and lost wages. However, the process of acquiring payment can be difficult without legal support. Employers and their insurance companies often search for ways to reject workers’ claims.

Get help from our Certified Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Specialists today by calling Cardamone Law at (267) 651-7945 for a free case assessment.

What to Do After Suffering a Forklift Injury at Work in Allentown, PA

After suffering a forklift injury at work, it is crucial to take immediate steps to improve your chances of recovery and protect your legal rights.

First and foremost, seek prompt medical treatment for your injuries, even if they initially appear minor. Not only is this important for your well-being, but it also creates documentation of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding them.

Second, report your injury to a supervisor as soon as you can. Failure to report the injury to your employer within 120 days of its occurrence can jeopardize your ability to recover Workers’ Compensation benefits.

Lastly, consider seeking legal guidance from our Workers’ Compensation attorneys. Our team can answer any questions you have regarding the claims process and will provide thorough support every step of the way. Furthermore, we can handle all communications with your employer’s insurance company. During these communications, we will ensure that you are not taken advantage of and will fight for the full extent of financial compensation you are owed.

Common Types of Forklift Injuries that Occur at Work in Allentown, PA

Accidents involving forklifts can cause devastating harm to both operators and nearby workers. For instance, such an accident may produce any of the following:

Head Injuries

Forklift accidents regularly result in head injuries, which can range from minor concussions to skull fractures and intracranial hematomas These injuries may occur if an individual is struck by an unsecured load, pinned between a forklift and a stationary object, or ejected from a forklift during a collision or rollover. Head injuries can have long-term consequences and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Spinal Injuries

Spinal injuries are another common consequence of forklift accidents, particularly those involving collisions, tip-overs, or falls from elevated platforms. Injuries to the spine may involve severe conditions such as herniated discs or fractured vertebrae. Victims can experience debilitating pain and, in some cases, paralysis. Accordingly, many of those with spinal cord injuries are unable to work.

Broken Bones

Forklift accidents frequently lead to broken bones in various parts of the body. For example, a worker may suffer a broken bone if they are struck by a forklift or by a piece of falling cargo. Broken bones can cause significant pain and impairment. In many cases, victims are immobilized during their recoveries. Moreover, some will require surgical treatment in order for their injuries to heal properly.

Punctures and Lacerations

Punctures and lacerations are common injuries in forklift accidents, often caused by sharp objects on the forklift or from contact with shifting loads. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to deep puncture wounds and severed body parts. Punctures and lacerations may require immediate medical attention to control bleeding, prevent infection, and minimize tissue damage. In severe cases, these injuries can significantly restrict victims’ earning capacities.

Contusions

Contusions, or bruises, are regularly caused by forklift accidents. These injuries typically result from blunt force trauma or crush injuries. Contusions can occur on any part of the body and may vary in severity depending on the force of impact at issue. While contusions may seem relatively minor to some, they can cause serious pain, swelling, and even tissue damage.

Internal Organ Damage

Furthermore, forklift accidents involving severe blunt force trauma or crush injuries can cause internal organ damage. Some common examples of organs that are affected include the liver, spleen, and kidneys. Damage to internal organs can be life-threatening and may require emergency medical intervention, including surgery to repair or remove damaged organs.

However, these injuries may not be apparent right away. It is imperative that you seek a medical assessment after any workplace forklift accident. That way, you may uncover any internal organ damage that may exist.

Soft Tissue Damage

Soft tissue injuries like strains, sprains, and tears are common in forklift accidents. These injuries can affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues. Victims may experience pain, swelling, and a limited range of motion. Soft tissue damage can take time to heal and may require rest, physical therapy, and other treatments to facilitate recovery and prevent long-term complications.

Psychological Trauma

Lastly, forklift accidents can lead to psychological trauma. This trauma may lead to mental health issues such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression.

Psychological trauma can significantly impact a victim’s ability to work and carry out daily activities. Many affected individuals encounter difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making. Further, they may incur medical expenses for necessary therapy and medication while being unable to work.

Do You Need to Prove Fault for Your Forklift Injury in Order to Obtain Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Allentown?

Workers’ Compensation is a no-fault system designed to provide benefits to employees who are injured on the job, regardless of who is to blame for their accidents.

Accordingly, you do not need to prove that someone else is at fault for your forklift injury in order to obtain payment for medical bills and lost income. Instead, you must only prove that your injury is work-related.

Call Our Law Firm for Help After Sustaining a Forklift Injury in Allentown, PA

In the aftermath of your forklift accident, seek help from our Certified Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Specialists at Cardamone Law by calling (267) 651-7945.