Forklifts, scissor lifts, boom lifts, and other industrial lifts are essential tools in many industries. But they’re also dangerous when safety standards are ignored. Accidents involving lifts can cause catastrophic injuries — crushing incidents, falls from heights, tip-overs, and collisions are all too common.

These accidents can happen in an instant, but the consequences can last a lifetime. Victims often face long, painful recoveries, mounting medical bills, and time away from work. For families, the emotional and financial strain is overwhelming.
If you’ve been injured in a lift or forklift accident, you deserve answers — and you deserve justice.

Workers’ Compensation May Not Be Enough

Workers’ compensation can help with immediate medical bills and lost wages, but it has limits. It doesn’t compensate you for the pain, suffering, and life disruptions caused by a serious injury.

If someone other than your employer was careless — like a subcontractor, property owner, equipment manufacturer, or maintenance provider — you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim for additional compensation.

We can help you identify every responsible party and fight for the full recovery you deserve. If workers’ compensation is the right option for you, we have experienced workers’ compensation attorneys who can help. We also evaluate as appropriate whether a third party can be held liable for your injuries.

Why Injured Workers Trust Morris James

Serious injuries bring serious challenges. We’re here to provide the legal support and guidance you can rely on. We offer:

  • Decades of experience in serious injury cases
  • Clear, honest communication every step of the way
  • Aggressive pursuit of full and fair compensation
  • Trial-tested advocacy if settlement isn’t enough
  • No upfront fees — you pay nothing unless we win

At Morris James, we treat every client with compassion, respect, and the personal attention they deserve. We’re here to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on healing.

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Team Leaders

Michael G. Owen
Partner
Keith E. Donovan
Managing Partner

How We Build Strong Cases for Our Clients

Forklift and lift injury cases are complex. Multiple companies might be working on the same job site. Equipment may be rented, maintained by a third party, or defective by design.

We investigate every detail of your accident to uncover negligence:

  • Was the equipment properly maintained?
  • Did the operator receive proper training?
  • Were OSHA safety standards followed?
  • Did other contractors or vendors create unsafe conditions?
  • Was the equipment itself defective?

By collaborating with industry experts and gathering strong evidence, we build a case that holds the right people accountable.

Forklift & Aerial Lift Accidents FAQs

Do I have a case if I’m already receiving workers’ compensation?

Quite possibly. While workers’ comp covers certain benefits, it does not account for pain, suffering, and other significant losses. If a third party’s negligence contributed to your accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim for additional compensation. For more information about workers’ compensation, visit our Workers’ Compensation service page.

What are the most common causes of forklift and lift accidents?

Common causes of forklift and aerial lift accidents include:

  • Operator negligence or lack of training
  • Overloading or misuse of equipment
  • Poor maintenance and defective machinery
  • Unsafe worksite conditions
  • OSHA safety violations
  • Negligence by other contractors or vendors
What types of injuries are common in forklift and aerial lift accidents?

Lift-related accidents often cause:

  • Crush injuries and amputations
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Internal injuries
  • Severe lacerations and disfigurement
  • Soft tissue damage and chronic pain
Who can be held responsible for a forklift or lift accident?

Liability may extend beyond your employer. Responsible parties could include:

  • Subcontractors or co-workers from other companies
  • Equipment manufacturers or designers
  • Maintenance or rental companies
  • Property owners or site managers
What compensation can I recover in a forklift or lift injury case?

A third-party personal injury claim may allow you to recover:

  • Full medical expenses (current and future)
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
How do I know if someone else is responsible for my accident?

Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties. We analyze safety records, equipment maintenance, witness accounts, and more to determine who is accountable for your injuries.

Will I have to go to court?

Most cases settle out of court, but we always prepare for trial. If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we are ready to take your case to court and fight for your best interests.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

There are no upfront costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

You don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone. If you or a loved one was injured in a forklift or lift accident, fill out our contact form below or call us at 302.655.2599 to schedule a consultation.

Connect with the Work Injury Group at Morris James

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Ashley C. Curran

Ashley C. Curran

Associate
Keith E. Donovan

Keith E. Donovan

Managing Partner
Matthew R. Fogg

Matthew R. Fogg

Partner
Kevin G. Healy

Kevin G. Healy

Partner
Michael G. Owen

Michael G. Owen

Partner
Susan D. Ament

Susan D. Ament

Retired Partner
Clayton E. Bunting

Clayton E. Bunting

Of Counsel