How To Claim For A Pallet Truck Accident At Work

Injured – But It Was Not Your Fault?

Pallet trucks are used to move heavy loads and accidents may easily happen, so here’s a guide on how to claim for a pallet truck accident at work.  These handy vehicles are commonly used in warehouses, factories, supermarkets and logistic centres. However, they can be hazardous if the correct safety procedures are not in place in the workplace.

Employers are legally required to protect the safety of their employees. But, if you’ve suffered an injury which was not your fault due to an accident involving a pallet truck, you may be entitled to compensation.

Our team at Jefferies Claims can help you with this process. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

What Are Pallet Trucks Used For In The Workplace?

Pallet trucks are also known as pump trucks, pallet jacks, or pallet movers and are material-handling tools designed to lift and transport pallets loaded with goods. They come in manual and electric (powered) versions and are invaluable in industries where heavy loads need moving safely and efficiently.

Common uses of pallet trucks in the workplace include:

• Moving stock around in warehouses and distribution centres.
• Loading and unloading delivery vehicles.
• Transporting materials in factories and manufacturing plants.
• Re-stocking shelves in large retail environments.
• Handling bulk goods in storage facilities.

Pallet trucks are a practical alternative to forklifts for moving smaller or lighter loads. Furthermore, they are useful as they are often used in tight spaces where larger vehicles aren’t suitable.

Common Pallet Truck Accidents and Injuries

Although often regarded as vital equipment at work, pallet trucks can pose health and safety risks if not operated properly. Additionally accidents may also happen if equipment is faulty, or if workplaces lack adequate safety protocols.

Common pallet truck accidents include:

• Trapping or crushing injuries caused when a pallet truck runs over a foot or crushes a hand.
• Back and musculoskeletal injuries from moving or lifting heavy loads manually.
• Collisions with other workers or objects when pallet trucks are manoeuvred carelessly or in confined areas.
• Load shifts or falling goods that can strike workers if items are not properly secured.
• Strains or sprains from operating a faulty or overloaded pallet truck.

Typical injuries resulting from pallet truck accidents include:

• Broken bones and fractures.
• Bruising and lacerations.
• Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains.
• Herniated discs or spinal damage.
• Head injuries from falling goods.

Many of these accidents are preventable through proper staff training, equipment maintenance, and safe working procedures.

Legal Duty Of Care

Legislation is in place so that employers have a legal duty of care to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their employees while at work. This includes ensuring that all equipment, including pallet trucks, is maintained in a safe condition. Besides that, workers should also be properly trained in their use, and that workplace hazards are minimised.

If an employer breaches these duties and you are injured as a result, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim.

Criteria For Making A Pallet Truck Accident Claim

If you’ve been injured in a pallet truck accident at work and believe your employer was at fault, you may be able to claim personal injury compensation. To do this successfully, you should consider the following:

Employer Negligence

You’ll need to prove that your employer failed in their duty of care, and that this directly caused your injury. Examples of negligence include:

• Providing faulty or poorly maintained pallet trucks.
• Failing to train staff in safe equipment use.
• Allowing unsafe working conditions, like cluttered or uneven floors.
• Overloading pallet trucks beyond their safe capacity.
• Not carrying out regular safety inspections or risk assessments.

Injury Documentation

Your claim will require evidence of the injury and its effects on your health, finances, and quality of life. This may include:

• Medical records and reports.
• Photographs of the injury and accident scene.
• Witness statements from colleagues.
• The accident should be logged in the work accident book

Time Limits

You generally have three years from the date of the accident to start a personal injury claim. However, there are exceptions for cases involving minors or those with diminished mental capacity.

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

The amount of compensation you could receive for a pallet truck accident depends on several factors such as the severity of your injuries and financial losses you’ve incurred. This includes lost wages, medical expenses and travel expenses to medical appointment. Plus, any long term impact and your ability to work is considered.

Compensation is usually divided into two parts:

• General damages: For your pain, suffering, and loss of amenity.
• Special damages: For your financial losses and expenses.

A qualified personal injury lawyer can help you calculate a fair compensation amount.

How To Start A Pallet Truck Accident Claim

If you’re considering making a claim, it’s important to seek expert legal advice. So here are your next steps to start your claim:

Steps to start your claim:

1. Report the accident to your employer and ensure it’s recorded in the accident book.
2. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
3. Collect evidence: Take photographs, gather witness details, and keep a diary of symptoms and expenses.

Free Consultation With A Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer who is experienced in injuries at work will be able to assess your case and advise if it valid.

At Jefferies Claims, we work with highly experienced lawyers in this field who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we will give you the support and understanding you need. Call us at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Us Page for a free, no-obligation consultation.