Skid Steer Loader Accidents

[Jon R]

The husband of one of my co-workers was killed yesterday in and accident involving a skid steer loader (commonly called a Bobcat, but there are other brands). There was no information passed along yet about what exactly happened. I’ve rented and used these before, so I decided to see if there was any information in a news report, and while I found nothing, the statistics I saw on the number of serious injuries and fatalities to operators and the people around them, including many children, were a surprise to me. Roughly 50 deaths and 2,000 serious injuries per year in the US. If you rent one of these, take the risks seriously and have someone else supervise any children on the property.

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

Jon, sorry to hear about you colleague’s husband.

Thanks for the caution on the skid steer, I would not have known about the dangers.

 

[pvstoy]

I've operated them, borrow the neighbor sometimes. I've had those moments where this is not going to turn out ok, but pulled it out. Close wheel base and easy to flop backwards if not careful.

 

[Sagebrush Reconnoiterer]

I've operated them a few times. I had the opportunity to purchase a used one. I passed. They beat the crap out of this aging body with all their herky-jerky antics, and I get confused easily with the controls other than steering. I'll just stick with a small or medium Massey or Kiote tractor, as they're safer, easier on the body and operating them for me is like riding a bicycle, you never forget. If only I could buy one of those babied, garaged and low hour units for $1,800 like all those internet ads offer ...

 

[craig333]

I've never heard of those referred to as skid steers. Sad nonetheless.

 

[Jon R]

Yeah I always heard them referred to as a Bobcat.