What Happens if You Are Injured in a Forklift Accident at Work in California?

 Posted on May 14, 2026 in Workplace Injuries

Forklifts are used every day at warehouses, farms, construction sites, and loading docks across California. They can weigh up to 9,000 pounds, and when something goes wrong, workers can get seriously hurt. According to the National Safety Council, forklifts caused 25,110 serious nonfatal injury cases involving days away from work, job transfer, or job restriction in 2023 and 2024 combined. That number shows how often these accidents happen, even when workers are following the rules.

If you were hurt in a forklift accident in 2026, you may have the right to workers' compensation benefits under California law. A Santa Clara County, CA workers' compensation attorney can review your case for free and explain what you may be owed.

How Do Forklift Accidents Happen at California Workplaces?

Forklift accidents happen for many reasons, and the machines themselves can be difficult to operate safely. Their weight sits toward the rear, and large loads can block the operator’s view. Under the California Code of Regulations, Title 8, § 3668, employers must train and evaluate forklift operators before allowing them to use the equipment. Forklifts also need regular inspections and maintenance to reduce the risk of accidents. When companies skip training or ignore equipment problems, serious injuries become much more likely.

Common forklift accidents at California workplaces include the following:

• Tip-overs, where the forklift rolls or tips to one side
• A worker being struck or pinned by a moving forklift
• A worker being crushed between a forklift and a wall, shelf, or dock
• A load falling from the forks and hitting someone below
• A worker falling from a pallet that is attached to the forks

You do not have to be the operator to get hurt. Warehouse staff, farm workers, and construction workers are all at risk, and anyone who works near forklifts can be injured in one of these accidents.

What Types of Injuries Do Forklift Accidents Cause?

Forklift accidents often cause serious injuries because of the weight and force involved. Workers hurt in these accidents often suffer broken bones, crush injuries to the legs or torso, spinal cord damage, brain injuries, and damage to internal organs. Tip-over accidents are especially dangerous because the operator can be pinned under the machine. Workers who are struck by a forklift while on foot often suffer the worst injuries of all.

Many of these injuries need surgery and a long recovery time. Some workers are left with lasting damage and cannot return to their previous job, and medical bills and missed paychecks can be very difficult to recover from.

Does Workers' Compensation Cover Forklift Injuries in California?

California's workers' compensation covers most on-the-job injuries, including those from forklift accidents. Under California Labor Code § 3600, workers have the right to benefits for injuries that happen during employment. It does not matter if the accident happened because of a co-worker's mistake, faulty equipment, or unsafe conditions at the worksite.

Workers' compensation can cover the following:

• Reasonable and needed medical treatment for your work injury
• A portion of your lost wages while you cannot work
• Temporary disability payments during recovery
• Permanent disability benefits if your injuries cause lasting impairment
• Supplemental job displacement benefits if you cannot return to your previous position

You do not have to prove your employer was at fault. Workers' comp is a no-fault system, which means your right to benefits is based only on the fact that you were hurt at work.

Can a Forklift Accident Victim in California File a Lawsuit in Addition to a Workers' Comp Claim?

Workers' compensation is usually the only option against your employer after a work injury. However, some forklift accidents also involve a third party. California Labor Code § 3852 allows an injured worker to bring a claim against someone other than the employer if that person or company helped cause the injury. If the forklift had a defect in how it was built, the maker may be liable for your injuries. If a contractor was running the forklift at the time of the accident, that contractor's company may be responsible. An attorney can review the facts of your case and tell you whether you have options beyond a standard workers' comp claim.

Contact a Morgan Hill, CA Workers' Comp Attorney for a Free Consultation

A forklift accident can cause serious injuries and put you under real financial pressure. The workers' compensation process is also hard to manage on your own, especially when you are still recovering. Raul Martinez Injury Law Firm has over 15 years of experience helping injured workers in Santa Clara County get the benefits California law provides. If your claim was denied or your benefits have been delayed, we can help you fight back.

Contact a Santa Clara County workers' compensation lawyer at Raul Martinez Injury Law Firm to go over your options at no cost. Call 408-848-1113 for a free consultation.