After a forklift injury, the first mistake is often assuming the paperwork will “take care of itself.” In Riverdale-area facilities, incident documentation may be routed through supervisors or safety teams who are under pressure to get operations back online.
Do these steps early:
- Get medical care immediately (even if you think it’s “just soreness”). Delayed symptoms are common after crush-type incidents and impacts.
- Ask for a copy of the incident report or confirm how you can obtain it. Don’t rely on hearsay.
- Document your version of events while it’s fresh: exact location (loading dock, aisle, yard gate), approximate time, what you saw, and what you were doing.
- Identify witnesses by name (not just “someone in receiving”). Ask who saw the moment of contact or the conditions leading up to it.
- Preserve proof without arguing at the scene: photos of the area if you can do so safely, and keep any discharge papers, work status forms, and follow-up instructions.
If you’re contacted by anyone requesting a statement, be cautious. Insurers and employers may ask questions before your medical picture is clear.


