You did everything the right way, but the forklift still would not stop when you hit the brake. Maybe it slid across the smooth warehouse floor in Kansas City, maybe the steering did not respond, or the mast jolted, and the load came down. Now you are hurt, and people may be asking what happened.
At Haight Stang, LLC, we represent injured workers in Kansas City and across Kansas and Missouri in workers' compensation claims. Our founding attorneys used to work for employers and insurance companies, so we have seen from the inside how forklift accidents are investigated.
Types of Forklift Issues
1. Hidden Brake Problems
Forklifts are vital to warehouse and industrial environments, where dependable braking performance is critical for both safety and productivity. When brake systems fail, the results can include workplace injuries, equipment damage, unplanned downtime, and significant financial losses.
Common reasons for brake failure:
- Worn brake pads: Thinning pads reduce stopping power and can damage other brake components if not replaced in time.
- Hydraulic system faults: Leaks or blockages lower brake pressure, causing weak or delayed stopping.
- Contaminated brake fluid: Dirt or moisture in the brake fluid reduces efficiency and can corrode internal parts.
2. Steering Failures
Operating a forklift can be difficult, particularly in tight or crowded areas. While operator mistakes can contribute to accidents, mechanical steering problems are also a significant risk factor.
Common causes of steering issues include:
- Insufficient hydraulic fluid: Low fluid levels can slow or weaken steering response, making directional changes less precise.
- Old components: Continuous operation gradually wears down parts like gears, linkages, and pumps, leading to delayed or inconsistent steering control.
- Loose steering parts: Ongoing vibration and heavy use can loosen bolts and joints, causing excess steering wheel play and reduced handling precision.
3. Mast Failure
A forklift’s mast is essential for controlling lifting, lowering, and tilting operations. Proper maintenance and careful operation are critical to for smooth and safe mast performance.
Common causes of mast issues include:
- Low hydraulic fluid: Low hydraulic fluid makes lifting heavy loads or maneuvering the forklift more difficult.
- Clogged filters: Debris can restrict fluid flow, causing overheating or misalignment.
- Overloading: Using the forklift beyond its rated capacity or for inappropriate tasks can strain the mast.
4. Battery Problems
Unusual noises during startup or weak performance can indicate battery problems. Maintaining the battery properly is essential for reliable forklift operation and preventing downtime.
Common causes of battery issues include:
- Overcharging: Excessive charging produces heat, evaporates electrolyte, and damages internal components, shortening battery life.
- Undercharging: Incomplete charging prevents full chemical reactions, resulting in reduced power and a shorter lifespan.
- Sulfation: Leaving a battery in a low-charge state allows lead sulfate crystals to form on the plates, lowering battery capacity and potentially causing permanent failure.
Can I Sue My Employer If I Was Hurt in a Forklift Accident?
In most cases, you cannot sue your employer for injuries sustained on the job because workers’ compensation operates as a no-fault system. Through workers’ compensation, you can pursue medical care, wage replacement, and other related benefits without proving fault.
However, if a third party contributed to your injury, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim to seek additional compensation, such as pain and suffering or punitive damages.
Third-party liability arises when someone other than your employer, such as a forklift manufacturer that produced a defective vehicle, played a role in causing the accident. A forklift accident lawyer can evaluate your case and help determine your options for pursuing this type of claim.
Steps to Take After a Forklift Accident in a Kansas City Warehouse
After a forklift accident, taking prompt and organized action can protect your health, your rights, and your potential claim.
Take time to follow these steps after an incident:
- Seek medical attention immediately: Let the doctor know the injury happened at work to ensure proper documentation.
- Report the accident to your employer: Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the forklift, the surrounding area, any visible damage, leaks, or tire marks if it’s safe to do so.
- Keep records: Save copies of incident reports, medical paperwork, emails, or any communications related to the accident.
- Collect witness information: Note coworkers who saw the accident or had previous issues with the same forklift, including what they observed or reported.
- Contact a forklift accident lawyer: Professional guidance helps have your case properly investigated, and your rights are guarded.
At Haight Stang, LLC, we put a high value on accessibility and clear communication. Our goal is to keep you informed about what is happening, what we are seeing in the records, and what to expect next as your Kansas City forklift accident claim moves forward.
Talk With a Kansas City Workers' Compensation Attorney About Your Forklift Accident
If you were hurt in a forklift accident in a Kansas City warehouse or industrial site, you do not have to sort through these questions alone. Haight Stang, LLC can review what happened, look at available maintenance and accident records, and explain how those details may affect your benefits.
To talk about your situation and your options, call us today at (913) 815-1347.