Loading Dock Accidents in Pennsylvania & New Jersey

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Loading dock accidents commonly occur at warehouses as well as ports and marine terminals. Whether it’s a trip and fall or a slip and fall accident situation, loading dock accidents often result in broken bones, back injuries and sometimes, head or brain injuries. In addition to fall down accidents, forklift overturn accidents are a common kind of accident which occurs at a loading dock. Those injured in these kinds of accidents often miss time from work, and for many, missing a month of work can be financially devastating.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) regulates loading and unloading activities at many kinds of workplaces, such as:

  • warehouses,
  • plants,
  • retail facilities, and
  • marine terminals, ports, piers, and shipyards.

In loading dock accidents at marine terminals or ports, OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1917.44(f), applies to operation of vehicles. The regulation requires that all vehicle and traffic routes and parking areas be established, identified, and used.

Having properly designated lanes near loading areas and other areas where vehicles like forklifts are operated can prevent a situation where a dockworker is struck by a forklift. For example, reflective stripping and clearly marked lanes can help establish designated areas for vehicles and pedestrians.  In many situations involving a loading dock accident, OSHA regulations were either ignored or intentionally violated.

Liability in a Workplace Loading Dock Accident Case in PA or NJ

Under the negligence and tort laws of both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, workers who are injured in loading dock accidents have rights to recover for their injuries and losses. While of course, workers’ compensation benefits can provide for some of the losses, there may be other potential claims. For instance, in a marine terminal loading dock accident case, a subcontractor or the pier operator could be liable for failing to provide properly marked lanes in accordance with OSHA regulations.

To ensure maximum recovery, it is important to have a loading dock accident case properly and thoroughly investigated by a knowledgeable work accident lawyer who can help identify all liable parties.

Related PA & NJ Work Accident Legal Articles:

Pennsylvania & New Jersey Loading Dock Work Accident Lawyers

At Laffey, Bucci & Kent, our work accident lawyers are passionate about workplace accident safety and injured workers’ rights. To submit your case for review by our Pennsylvania and New Jersey work accident and injury 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.

**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.