Loading Dock Accidents

From malls to grocery stores to warehouses in the El Paso, Texas and New Mexico area to the major businesses throughout Texas have loading docks.  While providing convenience in the shipping of larger merchandise and machinery, dangers exist to hard-working employees that put them at risk of loading dock and forklift injuries.

Skilled, Seasoned, And Industry Respected Attorneys Fighting For Your Rights.

Do not let your employer’s doctor minimize your injuries.  Do not accept a settlement that does not reflect the full extent of your pain and suffering and lost wages. If you have been injured while working on a loading dock and denied medical benefits or financial compensation, take immediate action and contact Roger Davie, P.C.  Also if you are injured while delivering to another company’s loading dock, contact Texas Board Certified Employment Lawyer, Roger Davie.

Employers who benefit from the convenience of loading docks must take measures to ensure the safety of their employees.  Docks that are high off the ground and have 18-wheel trucks backing in continually make for a high-risk environment.   Injuries and death can occur from falling off the dock or truck bed, accidents involving forklifts, or a worker trapped between a truck and the dock.  These injuries can occur to the employees of the company responsible for the loading dock as well as delivery persons and truck drivers making deliveries.

The Occupations Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific requirements regarding loading docks.  Owners must have trailer restraints to prevent the truck from prematurely moving away from the dock.  Employers also have a responsibility to train employees properly and within OSHA standards.

Falling short of those responsibilities could lead to injury and death.

Roger Davie has handled many loading dock cases in the El Paso, Texas and Las Cruces New Mexico area and has the expertise to protect you and loved ones who are involved in a loading dock accident.

Contact our El Paso Loading Dock Accident Attorneys

If you have been injured in a loading dock accident, contact Roger Davie as soon as possible.  Don’t wait until your benefits are denied.

Common Causes of Loading Dock Accidents

Loading docks certainly simplify the loading and unloading process, but they can cause injuries if not used properly. Here are some common causes of loading dock accidents.

• Unsecured Loads: It is critical for truck loads to be secured properly. Otherwise, items can get loose and fall on top of workers. This can result in crushing injuries and other life-threatening injuries.

• Slip and Fall Accidents: Slip and fall accidents can occur in just about all kinds of work environments, including loading docks. Dock workers can slip and fall on oil spills and debris on the ground. These accidents can lead to many injuries, such as head injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries and hip fractures.

• Falls: It is important for the gap between a loading dock and trailer to not be too big. If there is too large of a gap after the forklift leaves the trailer, docks workers can fall and suffer severe injuries. Securing the trailer can reduce the risk of this happening.

• Inadequate Maintenance: Loading dock equipment must be maintained and repaired on a regular basis to continue working properly. If a company skimps on maintenance, the equipment can malfunction and hurt employees.

• Trucks Backing Up: If drivers in trucks can’t see dock workers between the trailer and dock, they can back into them and cause fatal loading dock accidents. Workers shouldn’t stand inside the dock when trucks are present.

• Improper Lifting Techniques: Dock workers are frequently required to lift heavy objects on the job. If they are in a hurry and do not use proper lifting techniques, they can strain their back over time. Workers should always take their time when lifting items and use assistive equipment if necessary.

• Hazardous Materials: Dock workers also have to work around hazardous materials on a daily basis. Over time, they can develop respiratory illnesses, nervous system disorders and other sickness from these toxic substances. 

• Excessive Noise: Loading docks are known to be extremely noisy workplaces. Employees who are exposed to this noise may suffer permanent hearing loss eventually. Wearing ear protection can reduce the risk of this damage.

• Forklift Accidents: Forklift accidents can take place if the forklift operators do not see employees who are nearby. These workers may be in their blindspot. That is why it is extremely important for dock workers to always be aware of their surroundings at work.