San Rafael Forklift Accident Attorney

Injured in a Forklift Accident in San Rafael, CA?

At Kuvara Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact a forklift accident can have on a worker’s life. Forklifts are widely used on construction sites, warehouses, and industrial properties across California. While these machines are essential for moving heavy materials, they can also cause catastrophic injuries when safety measures are overlooked. If you or a loved one has been injured in a forklift accident in San Rafael, CA, you may be entitled to compensation. Our San Rafael forklift accident lawyer is here to help you pursue justice and protect your rights.

Contact us today at to schedule a free initial consultation with our team.

What is a Forklift Accident?

A forklift accident occurs when a powered industrial truck—commonly called a forklift—causes harm to a worker, pedestrian, or property. Forklifts can weigh thousands of pounds, and even a minor mishap can result in severe injuries. Because they are often used in tight spaces and around other workers, forklift accidents are unfortunately common on construction sites.

These incidents may involve collisions, rollovers, dropped loads, or operator errors. Victims often suffer serious injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or even death. After such an accident, it’s critical to work with an attorney who understands California workplace injury laws and personal injury claims.

Common Types of Forklift Accidents

Forklift accidents come in many forms, but some types occur more frequently on construction sites:

• Tip-Overs or Rollovers – A forklift may tip over if it is overloaded, driven on uneven ground, or operated recklessly. These are among the most dangerous accidents and often lead to crushing injuries.
• Falling Loads – Improperly secured or unbalanced loads can fall from the forklift, striking workers or damaging property.
• Collisions – Forklifts may collide with walls, vehicles, equipment, or even pedestrians. This often happens in busy or poorly lit areas.
• Workers Struck or Crushed – Pedestrians and nearby workers may be pinned or crushed between the forklift and another surface.
• Falls from Forklifts – When workers ride on forklifts or elevated platforms, falls can lead to serious injuries.
• Mechanical Failures – Malfunctioning brakes, steering, or hydraulics can cause accidents even when the operator is cautious.

Each of these accidents can result in life-altering injuries that demand legal and financial recovery.

Common Causes of Forklift Accidents

Many forklift accidents are preventable. The most common causes include:

• Operator Error – Inadequate training, lack of certification, or careless operation often contribute to accidents.
• Poor Maintenance – Forklifts that are not properly maintained may develop dangerous defects that increase the risk of failure.
• Overloading or Improper Loading – Exceeding the forklift’s weight limit or unevenly stacking materials can cause tipping and falling loads.
• Unsafe Worksite Conditions – Cluttered pathways, uneven ground, or lack of warning signs create hazardous environments.
• Inadequate Training or Supervision – Employers who fail to ensure operators are properly trained may be held responsible for resulting accidents.
• Reckless Operation – Speeding, sharp turns, and ignoring safety rules put everyone at risk.

When negligence is involved—whether by an employer, manufacturer, or contractor—injured workers may be entitled to compensation beyond standard workers’ compensation benefits.

Determining Liability

Forklift accident claims can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Our San Rafael forklift accident attorney will investigate thoroughly to identify all liable parties. Potentially responsible parties include:

• Employers – Employers may be liable for failing to train workers, ignoring OSHA regulations, or creating unsafe work conditions.
• Forklift Operators – If the operator acted recklessly or ignored safety procedures, they may be held responsible.
• Manufacturers – If a forklift or part was defective, the manufacturer could face liability under product liability laws.
• Contractors and Site Owners – Companies responsible for maintaining a safe construction site may be liable if hazards were ignored.
• Third-Party Vendors – Maintenance companies or subcontractors who improperly serviced equipment may also be at fault.

At Kuvara Law Firm, we conduct detailed investigations, gather witness testimony, review maintenance records, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

The compensation available in a forklift accident case will depend on the circumstances, but may include:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

Our goal is to maximize your recovery so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

Call or contact us online today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you rebuild your life after a construction site accident.