Steering (Turning)
WARNING
TRAVEL SLOWLY WHEN TURN-
ING. Lift trucks can tip over even
at very slow speeds. The combi-
nation of speed and the sharp-
ness of a turn can cause a
tipover. A lift truck is less stable
when the forks are elevated, with
or without a load.
WARNING
IF THE LIFT TRUCK TIPS OVER, DO NOT JUMP OFF!
HOLD FIRMLY TO STEERING WHEEL, BRACE YOUR
FEET, AND LEAN FORWARD AND AWAY FROM THE
POINT OF IMPACT.
Most operators can understand the need to be careful
when handling loads. But some operators do not realize
that a tipover can occur with an empty lift truck because
similar dynamic forces are present. In fact, the lift truck will
actually tip over easier when empty, than when loaded with
the load lowered. Mast tilt, off-center loads, and uneven
ground will aggravate these conditions and cause the fork-
lift to become unstable.
WARNING
Failure to observe the tail swing area when making a
turn can injure or kill someone.
A. TAIL
SWING
Because lift trucks are designed to work in a relatively
small space, they can turn sharper than some other vehi-
cles. Most lift trucks are steered by the rear wheels and the
rear of the lift truck can move to the side very fast during a
turn. This movement is called "tail swing". An operator must
be aware of tail swing and always check to make sure the
tail swing area is clear before turning. Failure to observe
Operating Procedures
90
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