Delivery trucks are an extremely common sight. With more and more people opting to make their purchases online, the number of commercial delivery vehicles on our roadways has skyrocketed. Along with UPS, FedEx, DHL and other delivery companies we also see Amazon drivers commonly delivering all over Texas. As these numbers increase the number of accidents these delivery trucks cause is also increasing. These types of accidents involve businesses that have teams of lawyers prepared to aggressively protect the company profits and limit your compensation for injuries caused by their employees. Because of the complexity of these cases it is imperative that you retain the services of an experienced truck accident attorney.
What Should You Do If You are Injured in an Accident with a Delivery Truck?
If you have been injured in a delivery truck or van accident, it is important that you take certain steps to protect your rights. First, it is important to get medical attention. Remember to save all medical bills that you have incurred as a result of your injuries. Next, collect as much evidence as possible from the accident scene including the name of the company on the truck, the name of the driver, his license number, the company’s insurance details, license plate, contact information for the company, contact information for eyewitnesses, etc. An experienced truck accident attorney can assist you in receiving proper medical attention from the right medical professionals who deal with accident victims on a regular basis. This attorney will also be able to obtain all the necessary evidence to maximize your claim.
In such cases a number of parties may be held liable for the injuries and damages caused. The delivery company may be held accountable if the driver was negligent, impaired, or if the company hired and/or retained an inexperienced or careless driver or if they failed to provide proper training. If the entity/crew responsible for fleet maintenance did not do their jobs right, they may be held liable. Dealing with a company’s legal department can be a daunting task and without the representation from an experienced truck accident attorney you will be fighting an uphill battle. Having an attorney on your side, makes Amazon, UPS or any other delivery company understand that you are serious. Negotiating with these large companies requires a law firm that has the experience and financial resources to properly handle a complex case such as this.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck or van accident, you may be able to seek compensation for damages including, but not limited to, medical expenses, lost income and benefits, hospitalization, rehabilitation, permanent injuries, disabilities, past and future pain and suffering, etc.
What Causes Delivery Truck Accidents?
Delivery truck accidents may occur due to a number of factors. However, a majority of these crashes are caused by delivery truck drivers operating their vehicles in a negligent or reckless manner.
- Excessive speed: Delivery truck drivers are often seen scrambling to get items on time to consumers. Sometimes, they break the speed limit or drive at an unsafe rate of speed just to complete their deliveries or in an effort to keep up with their schedule. A crash that results from any large vehicle such as a delivery truck that is speeding or driving at an unsafe speed definitely has the potential for severe injuries and/or fatalities.
- Distracted driving: Delivery truck drivers may when, looking for an address, fail to pay attention to the road. They may be looking at the navigation system, building numbers or other things, which may lead to a vehicle or pedestrian collision.
- Abrupt stops and turns: Lack of familiarity with a neighborhood or location may cause a delivery truck driver to operate the vehicle in an unpredictable manner. Sudden or abrupt stops or making an unsafe turn or lane change are examples of actions that may result in an accident.
- Carelessness while backing up: Failing to check behind the truck may result in pedestrians or passersby being run over by the truck. When the victims are young children, the consequences may be tragic.
- Inadequate driver training: A driver who is ill equipped to handle situations that arise while making deliveries is more likely to cause an accident. If a driver is inexperienced or lacks proper training, he or she may also be at a heightened risk for a crash.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: If the delivery vehicle is not properly maintained and is operated with worn-out parts, there is an increased risk for equipment failure and accidents.
- Improper cargo storage: Overloaded trucks or incorrectly loaded trucks may result in major rollover crashes and serious injuries.
Contacting Us
If you would like to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney, please call our law offices today at any of our convenient locations and get a free consultation.
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