Forklift Design Flaw Allegedly Causes Fatal Accident On Movie Set

Case Overview

This case involves a fatal forklift accident that occurred in a movie studio. During preproduction, the set crew was constructing a massive set which required steel beam framing. Prior to the start of preproduction, several crew members had received training in forklift operation. During construction, various forklifts were used to carry the materials across the studio space. On the day of the incident, one operator struck the set manager resulting in a traumatic brain injury which led to the manager’s death. It was alleged that the forklift manufacturer failed to provide a backup alarm and rearview mirrors when they designed this particular forklift. An engineer with experience designing forklifts was sought to discuss standard safety measures for such products.

Questions to the Engineering expert and their responses

Have you been responsible or have been part of a team that was responsible for designing forklifts?

I formerly served as a design engineer for industrial vehicle design and manufacturing for a well-known forklift manufacturer. In this role, I collaborated with Japanese counterparts to localize production of new equipment with compliant designs. I was responsible for reviewing designs for regulatory compliance and for leading design work on various optional features including sensors, alarms, and operator safety systems.

About the expert

This expert received his BS in Mechanical Engineering from Tulane University. He is a licensed professional engineer from Texas and has extensive design experience with commercial and industrial equipment. As a part of his various roles, he has conducted competitive analysis on industrial equipment in his field, led product development and design teams, and ensured product design is compliant with industry standards. He formerly served as a Design Engineer for industrial vehicle design and manufacturing at Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America, where he was responsible for reviewing designs for regulatory compliance and for leading design work on various optional features including sensors, alarms, and operator safety systems. He currently serves in a supervisory engineering role with a major oil and gas exploration company in Texas.