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Work accidents at docks or marine terminals are very common and can occur in a variety of ways. This is due to the fact that docks and terminals are incredibly busy places. The volume of activity is enormous.
For instance, a longshore or marine terminal work accident can occur when a worker is struck by or run over by a vehicle or forklift, or a worker may be struck by a large container during loading/unloading operations. Like construction accident injuries, work accidents at docks and terminals often result in catastrophic injuries. In fact, our law office often represents dock workers who have suffered crushed limbs in work accidents.
Related dock work accident case result: Over $2.75 million for a dock worker crushed by forklift at a NJ port
Lawsuits for Dock & Terminal Work Accidents
There are multiple claims which can be made in a dock or marine terminal work accident, and they depend on the facts of the case. Below is a discussion of common claims made in longshore or marine terminal accident lawsuits in PA and NJ.
More: Common Claims Made in Pennsylvania and New Jersey Longshore/Marine Terminal Accident Lawsuits
Negligent Operation of Equipment
One common claim in these accidents is negligent operation of a PIT (forklift) with defective lights, brakes, or with obstructed views. If a PIT such as a forklift is operated with any defective parts, the risk for an accident is quite significant. In addition, if materials are stacked too high and obstruct the forklift driver’s view, workers may be struck and run over. In some instances, workers struck by forklifts can get caught underneath and dragged.
Failing to Enforce Certification Requirements
Another common cause of accident is failure to obtain necessary certifications. Per the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), forklift operators are required to receive specific training and certifications. Failure to provide training or require these certifications is a major cause of forklift accidents at marine terminals. Basically, many forklift accidents occur because the driver was not trained properly.
Failure to Provide a Safe Work Environment
Another cause of longshore work accidents is the failure to mark walkways and traffic lanes. Terminals are busy workplaces with multiple vehicles at work, especially during ro-ro (roll-on, roll-off) operations. If pedestrian walkways and traffic lanes are not marked properly, workers are at risk of serious injury.
To submit your case for review by our Pennsylvania and New Jersey longshore and marine terminal accident lawyers, call Click To Call. Our lawyers are available for a free, no obligation legal consultation, and can obtain special admission in other states, such as New York or Delaware, on a case by case basis.
Disclaimer: This website does not provide legal advice. Every case is unique and it is crucial to get a qualified, expert legal opinion prior to making any decisions about your case. See the full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.
Last updated: February 17, 2015
