Understanding Accidents Involving Delivery Vehicles
Delivery drivers are constantly on the move, rushing to meet deadlines and complete their routes. Unfortunately, this urgency can lead to reckless driving, distraction, or fatigue—putting other road users at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving a delivery vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation.
At Scholle Law, our Georgia personal injury attorneys have extensive experience handling cases against corporate delivery services and independent drivers. We understand the complexities of corporate liability and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Delivery Vehicle Accidents
Delivery drivers face tight schedules, increasing the likelihood of dangerous driving behaviors. Some of the most common causes of delivery-related crashes include:
- Speeding to meet delivery deadlines
- Distracted driving (GPS use, phone calls, app notifications, etc.)
- Fatigue due to long shifts and demanding schedules
- Illegal parking and unsafe roadside stops
- Failure to yield when making deliveries in neighborhoods
- Improperly secured cargo causing loss of control
Who Is Liable in a Delivery Vehicle Accident?
Determining liability in a delivery truck or van accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Depending on the situation, the following entities could be liable:
1. The Delivery Driver
- If the driver was negligent (e.g., speeding, distracted, or reckless driving), they may be held personally responsible.
2. The Delivery Company (Employer Liability)
- If the driver was working for a major delivery company (Amazon, UPS, FedEx, USPS, etc.), the company could be held responsible under vicarious liability laws.
- Employers may also be liable if they failed to conduct background checks or enforce safety regulations.
3. Third-Party Contractors
- Many delivery drivers are independent contractors, complicating liability. Some companies may attempt to deny responsibility, but Scholle Law can investigate contract details to hold the right parties accountable.
4. Vehicle Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers
- If mechanical failure (e.g., brake failure, tire blowout) contributed to the crash, the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance provider could be held responsible.
How to Prove Fault in a Delivery Vehicle Accident
To successfully file a claim against a delivery company or driver, you need strong evidence proving fault. Scholle Law’s personal injury attorneys will gather critical evidence, including:
- Police reports detailing the accident and any citations issued.
- Eyewitness testimony confirming reckless or negligent driving.
- Surveillance or dashcam footage showing the delivery driver’s behavior before the crash.
- GPS and delivery route data to track driver speed and location.
- Employment records to establish whether the driver was working at the time of the crash.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of delivery vehicle accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses – Hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
- Lost wages – Compensation for missed work and loss of future earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property damage – Costs for repairing or replacing your vehicle.
- Punitive damages – If the delivery company exhibited gross negligence (e.g., ignoring driver fatigue laws).
At Scholle Law, we fight aggressively to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Steps to Take After a Delivery Vehicle Accident
If you were hit by a delivery driver, follow these steps to protect your case:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Obtain contact details of witnesses and the delivery driver.
- Document the driver’s employer information (company logos, uniform, or ID badge).
- Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters before consulting a lawyer.
- Contact Scholle Law for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I sue the delivery company instead of the driver?
Yes, if the driver was on duty at the time of the crash, the delivery company may be vicariously liable under Georgia law. However, many companies classify drivers as independent contractors to avoid liability. Scholle Law can investigate the employment structure to determine the best course of action.
What if the delivery driver was using their personal vehicle?
If the driver was using their own car but working for a delivery service (such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Instacart), their commercial insurance policy or the company’s liability coverage may apply. Our attorneys can review the details and determine the best way to file your claim.
How long do I have to file a claim in Georgia?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Georgia is typically two years from the accident date. It’s crucial to start your case as soon as possible to preserve evidence and strengthen your claim.
What if the delivery driver was uninsured or underinsured?
If the driver lacks adequate insurance, you may still recover compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Scholle Law can help explore all available options to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Delivery companies and their insurers prioritize their bottom line, often denying claims or shifting blame onto victims. At Scholle Law, we:
- Investigate thoroughly to prove the driver’s negligence.
- Handle negotiations with corporate insurers who try to minimize payouts.
- Take your case to trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered.
With a proven track record of success, we are committed to fighting for maximum compensation on your behalf.
Contact Scholle Law for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a delivery driver, don’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you. Call Scholle Law today at (866) 592-1296 or visit our website to schedule your free consultation.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing until you win your case.
Your rights matter—let Scholle Law fight for the compensation you deserve.