In a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in industrial workplaces, a recent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prosecution has exposed critical safety failures with a worker run over by a forklift truck.
Reportedly, a worker run over by a forklift truck suffered life-altering injuries when whilst unloading shipping containers. This incident, which reportedly led to a £30,000 fine for the employer in September 2025, underscores the importance of robust safety measures and the right to seek personal injury compensation.
The Injury Lawyers helps victims navigate these claims to secure the financial support needed for recovery. This article delves into the case details, common pitfalls in forklift operations, and how to pursue justice.
The Harrowing Incident: A Worker Run Over by a Forklift Truck at Ipswich Docks
The accident involving the worker run over by a forklift truck reportedly took place during a routine task. The worker was understood to be assisting the forklift driver in emptying two small waste bins—filled with packaging like ratchet straps and chocks—into a larger commercial bin. These bins sat on a pallet loaded onto the forklift’s forks, with the worker standing on the pallet for stability. As the vehicle moved, loose straps trailed to the ground, snagged in the wheels, and one caught his foot, yanking him down. The forklift then drove over his foot, dragging him and causing severe trauma.
Source: HSE.
Mr Addison endured nine days in hospital, including skin grafts on his left calf and thigh, alongside a fractured ankle. The HSE investigation revealed glaring oversights: inadequate risk assessments for the bin-emptying process, unsuitable equipment for the task, and disorganised traffic routes allowing pedestrians and vehicles to mingle dangerously. The employer reportedly pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 at Norwich Magistrates’ Court on 12 September 2025, resulting in a £30,000 fine and £3,752 in costs. As HSE Inspector Adepeju Sogadgi noted, “This injury could easily have been prevented” through proper assessments and controls. Stories like this highlight why a worker run over by a forklift truck must prioritise compensation to cover medical expenses, lost earnings, and ongoing rehabilitation.
Legal Ramifications and Lessons
This case exemplifies employer accountability under UK health and safety laws. The HSE’s findings point to systemic issues—failure to adhere to the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) and inadequate segregation of pedestrians from heavy machinery—that are all too common in logistics and warehousing. Forklift mishaps account for many injuries, often due to blind spots, unsecured loads, or poor training, as outlined in HSE’s guidance on lift trucks and workplace transport.
Pathways to Compensation: Protecting Your Rights Post-Accident
If you have experienced trauma as a worker run over by a forklift truck, swift action is essential. The Injury Lawyers specialises in personal injury claims, from initial assessments to negotiating settlements or litigating if necessary. We can cover everything: physiotherapy costs, wage losses, and psychological support. Drawing from cases like this, we emphasise how employer fines signal liability, boosting your payout potential.
Do not let negligence derail your life—contact The Injury Lawyers today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Call 0800 634 7575 or visit our claims page here now to start your claim. Justice and recovery are within reach; take the first step now and let us fight for you.
