Pennsylvania Forklift Accident Lawyers

Representation for Workers in Carlisle, Hanover, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Schuylkill County & York

Whether it involved pickers, powered platform trucks, or any other type of forklift, a workplace accident involving these machines can be life-changing or even fatal. From 2021 to 2022, forklift accidents led workers to spend 24,960 days away from work due to injuries. Many workers required a job transfer because their injuries changed the type of work they could perform. In 2023, forklifts were involved in 67 workplace deaths, according to the National Safety Council.

Pennsylvania has thousands of active warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing plants, which means employees in cities like Harrisburg, Lancaster, and York face heightened risks on busy worksites. Forklift incidents often occur in environments with fast-paced schedules and heavy machinery, making proper safety protocols critical. State and federal regulations require operators to complete extensive training and certification for forklift use, but lapses and shortcuts can still lead to severe injuries.

Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC knows how serious workplace accidents can be, providing relentless representation to help you and your family secure what you need. For more than 100 years, our Pennsylvania injury law firm has served workers and families who have lost loved ones in workplace accidents. We have recovered tens of millions of dollars on behalf of our clients—let's see if our forklift accident attorneys in Pennsylvania can help you too.

Call (888) 498-3023 today to request your free case evaluation from a forklift accident lawyer in Pennsylvania. We don’t charge any fees unless and until we win your case!

Forklift Accidents Are a Hazard in Many Different Industries

Forklifts contribute to the “Fatal Four” of construction accidents, responsible for fatal struck-by and caught-in/between accidents. They are also a prevalent risk for both transportation and struck-by accidents in warehousing, wholesale trade, goods-producing industries, and many other worksites.

Every year, Pennsylvania workplaces see serious injuries caused by improper forklift operation or poorly maintained equipment. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires routine safety inspections and ongoing training. However, accidents still happen when companies neglect required safety checks or fail to train operators. In many Pennsylvania regions, the fast-growing logistics and e-commerce sectors have increased the demand for forklift operators, sometimes leading employers to cut corners in staffing and maintenance. Ensuring that forklifts are used safely and according to both OSHA and Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry guidelines helps prevent devastating incidents.

Forklift accidents present unique dangers in these settings because they can result in sudden collisions, falls, or loads dropping unexpectedly. Facilities that process heavy goods or have high employee turnover often see higher accident rates. Proper supervision and clearly marked pathways are essential for reducing these risks, but not all employers maintain adequate standards. Even in smaller communities throughout Central Pennsylvania, workers in local factories, retail distribution hubs, or on job sites are exposed to potential harm when forklifts are present.

Whether on a construction site, in manufacturing facilities, or in warehouses, forklift accidents can involve, but are not limited to:

• Loads slipping from the forklift and falling onto workers
• The forklift striking something like a ladder or equipment that falls onto an employee
• Forklift tip-overs, such as while taking sharp turns
• Falls from platforms in a forklift
• Employees getting crushed by a forklift

Most often, these injuries are recorded as bruises and soreness. In more serious accidents, workers can suffer fractures, traumatic brain injuries, or amputations. Too often, families need to file for death benefits from workers’ compensation or pursue a wrongful death claim after losing a loved one to a forklift accident.

Common Causes & Consequences of Forklift Accidents in Pennsylvania

Forklift accidents most often happen for reasons tied to unsafe work conditions. Pennsylvania’s busy warehouses and distribution hubs frequently operate with tight deadlines, which can lead to rushed procedures and missed safety checks. Operator distraction, failing to signal, or engaging in hazardous maneuvers are common contributing factors. Inadequate training or supervision often results in improper loading, navigating congested areas, or using defective equipment. Mechanical issues, such as malfunctioning brakes or steering, further increase the risk, especially on older forklifts frequently used in Pennsylvania’s industrial centers.

The consequences of a serious forklift accident can last for years. Many injured workers face extended hospital stays, surgeries, and long-term physical therapy. In some cases, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or amputations prevent a full return to work. The emotional impact on families is significant, as lost wages, mounting medical bills, and lifestyle changes follow a severe injury. Pennsylvania law allows for compensation through workers’ compensation and third-party claims in certain scenarios, but the process depends on the details of the accident and who holds responsibility.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Forklift Accident?

Multiple parties may carry responsibility for injury or death after a forklift accident in Pennsylvania. Often, the employer carries liability through the workers’ compensation system unless gross negligence or a third party contributed. Equipment manufacturers or rental companies might be responsible if a design flaw, manufacturing defect, or failure to provide clear safety instructions led to harm. Contractors or subcontractors could also play a role if their policies or employees contributed to the accident. Pennsylvania courts examine all possible causes to determine liability, considering factors like equipment age, training records, worksite conditions, and adherence to state and federal regulations. Understanding these possibilities helps injured workers and their families explore all possible paths to recovery.

Steps to Take After a Forklift Accident in Pennsylvania

After a forklift accident, prompt action protects workers’ health and rights. The first priority is to seek medical evaluation, even if injuries seem minor, as many symptoms worsen with time. Reporting the incident in writing to supervisors ensures a documented record, which is essential for both insurance claims and legal proceedings. Gathering witness names, taking photographs of the scene, and noting any equipment malfunctions can make a significant difference should a dispute arise.

In Pennsylvania, documenting every detail and seeking immediate medical care helps build a strong case for recovery, whether through workers’ compensation or a lawsuit. Calling a forklift accident attorney in Pennsylvania can also help clarify available legal options and timelines, especially since state rules set strict deadlines for reporting and filing injury claims.

Discover Your Legal Options After a Forklift Accident

Whatever circumstances you are facing, you can find legal guidance and advocacy at Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC. Our forklift accident attorneys are ready to hear your story and discuss your options. Whether you need to file for workers’ compensation benefits or pursue a lawsuit against a negligent forklift manufacturer, employer, or another party, we will do what we can to help you seek a financial recovery and move forward.

Legal options following a forklift accident depend on the facts unique to your case. In Pennsylvania, you may have rights to workers’ compensation benefits for medical costs, wage loss, and rehabilitation. If a defective forklift contributed to your injury, or if a third party’s negligence played a role, you may also have grounds for a personal injury claim. Investigating the cause of the accident promptly is critical, as evidence from the scene and witness accounts often shape the path forward. Our team can guide you through the complex process of identifying liable parties, navigating insurance communications, and determining which legal avenues best align with your recovery goals. By understanding local regulations and the worksite environment, you can make informed decisions about your next steps after a serious workplace injury.

Find out how our experienced forklift accident lawyers may be able to help you. Request your free consultation today by calling (888) 498-3023.

Pennsylvania Forklift Accident FAQ

What injuries are most common in forklift accidents?

Common injuries include fractures, head injuries, crush injuries, amputations, and soft-tissue trauma. In severe cases, workers might face long-term disability or require extensive rehabilitation. Prompt medical care can help reduce long-term complications.

Can workers’ compensation cover all costs after a forklift accident?

Workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania can cover medical expenses, partial wage loss, and vocational training if you cannot return to your previous position. However, it may not compensate for pain and suffering or in situations where a third party was at fault.

How long do I have to file a forklift accident claim in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania sets strict deadlines for filing injury claims. Generally, claims must be reported to your employer within 120 days, while lawsuits in the Commonwealth must be filed within two years of the accident. Consulting an attorney soon after an injury can help you meet all deadlines.