Forklift Injuries and Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation

In Oklahoma, the warehousing and logistics industry plays a vital role in the economy, with numerous employees operating forklifts to move goods efficiently. While forklifts are essential tools that enhance productivity, they also present significant risks. Understanding the potential forklift injuries and the Workers’ Compensation system is crucial for employees in this sector.

The Armstrong Law Firm, PLC, reviews the types of injuries possible when working with or near forklifts and how a Tulsa Workers’ Compensation Lawyer can help injured employees protect their rights and get the benefits they deserve.

The Oklahoma Warehousing Industry

Oklahoma’s strategic location at the convergence of three major interstate highways—I-35, I-40, and I-44—coupled with its relatively affordable land and building costs, makes it an ideal distribution hub in the United States. The warehousing industry in Oklahoma has experienced significant growth, particularly in the metropolitan areas of Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Notably, employment in this sector has expanded to approximately 3.5 times its size at the end of 2022 compared to 2015.

Forklifts are commonly used in warehouses across Oklahoma for material handling, transporting goods, and conducting inventory. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), more than 100,000 forklift-related injuries occur each year in the United States. In Oklahoma, where warehousing jobs abound, it’s essential to recognize the types of injuries that can occur and the protections available for workers.

Common Forklift Injuries

Although OSHA reports that 70% of forklift accidents are preventable with standard safety measures, forklift accidents result in 75-95 deaths every year and 8,000-9,000 injuries serious enough to require days away from work. Forklift injuries tend to be more serious than other types of incidents because we know they require more recovery time than average.

Here are the most common types of injuries:

• Crush Injuries: These can occur when a forklift overturns or collides with an employee. Severe injuries, including broken bones and internal injuries, can result from being trapped under the vehicle.
• Forklifts are prone to rolling or tipping over, and this is a particularly dangerous type of accident. It’s estimated that 24% of all forklift accidents are turnovers, but they account for 42% of all recorded injuries.
• Electrocution: Forklifts can come into contact with overhead power lines, posing an electrocution risk. Operators must be aware of their surroundings to avoid such hazards.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries: Prolonged operation of forklifts can lead to repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis, due to the repetitive movements associated with operating the controls.
• Driving Accidents: Collisions with other vehicles, equipment, or pedestrians can cause serious injuries, making safe driving practices vital in busy warehouse environments.

Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Forklift Injuries in Oklahoma

Oklahoma requires most employers to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance to protect employees from work-related injuries. Understanding how this system works can help employees navigate the claims process following a forklift-related injury.

1. Eligibility: Workers injured while operating a forklift or in proximity to forklift operations may qualify for Workers’ Compensation benefits. This includes full-time, part-time, or temporary workers.
2. Filing a Claim: If a worker sustains an injury, they must report it to their employer as soon as possible. Detailed documentation of the incident, including the time, location, and circumstances, is crucial for a successful claim. Employers are then required to notify their Workers’ Compensation insurance carrier.
3. Medical Documentation: Prompt medical attention and detailed records of medical treatment are essential for substantiating claims. Employees should follow their doctors’ recommendations and maintain communication with their healthcare providers.
4. Benefits Available: Workers’ Compensation benefits in Oklahoma typically cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages during recovery. Additional compensation may be available in cases of permanent disability.

Workers’ Compensation Claims Assistance for Forklift Injuries

Forklift injuries can lead to significant consequences for workers and employers alike. As the number of warehousing jobs in Oklahoma continues to grow, understanding Workers’ Compensation coverage and taking proactive measures to prevent incidents is essential. If you experience a forklift-related injury, be vigilant in documenting the incident and seeking the benefits you deserve through the Workers’ Compensation system.

If you have questions or concerns about your claim or benefits, The Armstrong Law Firm, PLC, has decades of experience helping Oklahoma workers. Contact us for a free consultation to review your concerns and learn more about your rights under the law.