Last Updated on April 14, 2025 by tanya

Injured By A Moving Work Vehicle

 

What You Need to Know About Risks and Compensation

 

Workplaces that involve the operation of vehicles pose a risk of being injured by a moving work vehicle. Employers have a legal duty to implement safety measures in the workplace, but accidents can happen.

There are some industries which require a lot of vehicles on the ground. These may include construction, warehouses, factories and farms. An accident may happen in seconds. If you have been injured in such an accident which wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

At First Personal Injury, we work with experienced lawyers, and we may be able to help.

 

Common Types of Work Vehicle Accidents

 

Work vehicles can include forklifts, delivery vans, lorries, tractors, cherry pickers, dumper trucks, cranes, and even company cars. The risks increase wherever people and vehicles are in close proximity with one another.

Here are some of the most common accidents involving work vehicles and workers on the ground:

 

Struck-by-Vehicle Accidents

These happen when a moving vehicle hits a worker on foot. A reversing lorry, a forklift in a busy warehouse, or a digger on-site can easily strike someone if proper safety measures aren’t in place.

 

Crushing Accidents

Crushing injuries occur when a worker gets caught between a moving vehicle and a fixed object (like a wall or a structure), or between two vehicles. These can lead to severe injuries such as broken bones and internal injuries.

 

Falls from Vehicles

Workers who ride on, climb onto, or dismount from work vehicles can fall and sustain injuries. This type of accident may happen where workers are operating machinery at height.

 

Loading and Unloading Incidents

Accidents may easily happen while vehicles are being loaded or unloaded. Items might fall from height or machinery can fail. Alternatively, vehicle operators may move before workers on the ground are safely out of the way.

 

Vehicle Rollovers

Heavy machinery and vehicles such as tractors and dump trucks can overturn, posing serious risks to both operators and nearby workers. These incidents typically occur due to unstable ground, improper loading, or operator error.

 

Defective Vehicle Equipment

Faulty brakes, malfunctioning safety alarms, or worn tyres can contribute to accidents. If vehicles aren’t properly maintained, both drivers and nearby workers face heightened dangers.

 

Injuries Commonly Sustained in Work Vehicle Accidents

 

The types of injuries sustained in vehicle-related accidents vary greatly. Here are some of the more common types:

 

• Broken bones and fractures
• Crush injuries
• Head and brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Internal bleeding
• Cuts and lacerations
• Psychological trauma

 

When Can You Claim Compensation for a Work Vehicle Accident?

 

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a work vehicle, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This is provided the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence.

Employers have a legal duty to ensure the safety of their employees, visitors, and contractors. This includes managing the risks posed by vehicles in the workplace.

Here’s when you might have a valid compensation claim:

Employer Negligence

If your employer failed to implement adequate safety measures, such as clear vehicle routes, warning signs, trained drivers, or functioning vehicle alarms.

 

Inadequate Training

If the accident occurred because a vehicle operator was not properly trained or certified to use a particular type of machinery or vehicle, responsibility may lie with the employer.

 

Defective Equipment

Injuries may be caused by faulty work vehicles or machinery — such as defective brakes or malfunctioning safety features. Regular maintenance checks should be carried out by your employer.

 

Unsafe Work Environment

If the working environment was unsafe for vehicle and pedestrian interaction, for example, no designated walkways or poor visibility which contributed to the accident.

 

Negligent Third Parties

Sometimes accidents are caused by contractors, visitors, or third-party drivers on-site. I

 

What Should You Do If You’re Involved in an Accident at Work?

 

If you’re injured in a work vehicle-related accident, here are the steps to take:

 

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor.
• Report the accident to your employer and ensure it’s recorded in the workplace accident book.
• Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle involved, and any hazards present.
• Gather witness details from anyone who saw the incident and obtain any CCTV footage if available.
• Keep records of all medical appointments, treatments, and expenses related to your injury.

 

It is advisable to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can assess your case and advise if you have a claim.

 

Reaching out to a trusted claims company can make a significant difference in your journey ahead. At First Personal Injury, we work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and will ensure you receive all the support you need. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online at First Personal Injury to learn more.