I Was Injured by a Menards Forklift, What Do I Do? 

I Was Injured by a Menards Forklift, What Do I Do? 

At Menards, forklifts are essential for store operations, but they can also pose serious risks. They help move large and heavy inventory into the hands of customers. Unfortunately, that transfer doesn’t always go as planned.

Forklift accidents are just one way devastating injuries can happen at Menards. At Nicolet Law, we have experience handling forklift-related injury cases and holding Menards accountable when customers get injured. If you have been injured due to a forklift accident at Menards, reach out to us at 1-855-NICOLET or through our online contact form. We are proud to serve Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Iowa.

Here’s what you need to know about protecting your health, your rights, and your potential claim.

A Quick History of Injuries at Menards

Why the big box retailer has had to pay out millions

Russell Nicolet has firsthand experience taking on Menards and securing meaningful results for injured clients. In a notable case from 2023, he recovered a multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a serious neck injury after being struck by a falling box.

Reflecting on the case, Russell was quoted as calling Menards’ effort to avoid accountability “disheartening and frustrating,” adding:

“Customers who go into Menards should not have to shop in fear of being struck in the head from falling inventory.”

This case was not an isolated example. Menards has a history of safety concerns. Since 2000, they have accumulated over 70 OSHA safety violations.

All of this shows there is a history of injuries occurring at Menards, with the injured paying the price for the retailer’s negligence.

Why Do Forklift Accidents Happen in Menards?

There are unfortunately many ways things can go wrong

Forklifts are a necessity to Menards' operations, but can easily lead to catastrophic injuries when mishandled. Forklift accidents can occur due to:

• Forklifts operating near customers, both in-store aisles and in outdoor loading zones
• High shelving and heavy inventory creating a significant catastrophic fall risk
• Reduced stability at higher lift heights
• Tight, potentially obstructed store aisles
• Lumber yard traffic
• Limited visibility for the operator, especially when carrying large loads

Even under the control of an experienced operator, accidents can happen.

What To Do Right After a Forklift Accident Injury

Get medical help, document the scene, report the accident

A forklift accident injury can be painful and overwhelming. Taking certain steps early on can make a difference in your recovery and potential legal claim.

Seek medical help

Because forklifts can cause severe injuries, there’s a good chance that we don’t need to tell you twice to seek medical assistance. Call 911 if the injury is serious.

Even if you don’t feel the need to call 911, you should still see a doctor. Some injuries take time to show symptoms.

Document the scene

Document the scene with video/photos and write down key details. If you cannot do this, or cannot do so safely, ask someone nearby for help. Get photos of the forklift, the accident scene, and any other hazards that may be in the area.

Write down the names and contact information of any witnesses and Menards personnel you may interact with.

Many Menards stores have surveillance cameras that may capture the accident. It is crucial to preserve that evidence, which an attorney can do through a letter of spoliation. That earmarks the footage and prevents it from being overwritten.

Report the accident

Report the incident to a store manager or employee and ask that an official incident report be created. When answering questions and retelling your story, avoid speculation. Stick to the basic facts.

Accidents can affect memory, even without a head injury. The startling nature of an accident sends your brain into fight-or-flight mode, where getting to safety is the priority. Your brain will not be as focused on making memories. So if you are having trouble recalling details, that’s normal. It may be frustrating, but it's normal.

What To Say to the Insurance Companies

Don’t underestimate their ability to twist your story

Getting legal representation is one of the safest ways to deal with insurance adjusters, whether you live in Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, or Iowa.

They may ask leading questions, try to get you to give a recorded statement, and use tactics designed to undermine your claim. If you find yourself in conversation with insurers, stick to the basic facts of your accident, whether it happened in the outdoor lumber yard or in-store.

Is Liability Always Obvious After A Menards Forklift Accident?

It can be more complex than some think

No. Even if it feels like there is an obvious answer, it may not be the only one, or the correct one. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Forklift driver: If the forklift driver failed to follow procedures
• Store manager: If they didn’t enforce safety rules or maintain safe store conditions
• Corporate leadership: If pressure from above led to unsafe practices
• Maintenance & Manufacturers: If faulty equipment or poor maintenance led to an accident.

In other words, the story of how your accident happened can go deeper. When seeking compensation, identifying multiple responsible parties can create more opportunities for recovery.

How Much Is My Forklift Case Worth?

It takes time and a deep investigation to get to the answer

At Nicolet Law, we know that people are already trying to keep up with the rising cost of living, and an injury can strain finances even further.

We offer free consultations so injured folks can speak with qualified and compassionate personal injury attorneys.

At Nicolet Law, we can investigate the full impact of your injuries, whether they occurred inside the store or in the lumber yard, and gather evidence to help determine what your case may be worth. That way, you can move forward with more clarity and confidence, whether you live in Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, or Iowa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Injured In A Forklift Accident At Menards? Call A Forklift Accident Injury Attorney Today

At Nicolet Law, we know how overwhelming it can be to suffer an injury. We only represent personal injury cases, so every day we see the impact that these injuries have on people from the Midwest. If you or someone you know was injured by a forklift accident at a Menards, reach out to our firm today. We are proud to serve Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Iowa.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. That means you have the opportunity to talk to one of Nicolet Law’s experienced and compassionate attorneys, and if Nicolet Law represents your case, you owe no upfront fees. We only get paid if we win your case and recover compensation for you. 

Reach out to Nicolet Law at 1-855-NICOLET or through our online contact form.