Today, more and more people shop online and have packages or food delivered directly to their homes. As you drive from place to place, you notice the increased number of delivery vans and trucks on the road. The high volume of traffic may lead to accidents. If you have been in a crash that involves this type of automobile, you may wish to learn how to file a delivery vehicle accident claim. Our law team is ready to discuss your case.
How Common are Delivery Driver Accidents?
The convenience of delivery services brings the heightened risk of road and highway accidents. Delivery vehicles are on the streets for prolonged periods. Also, many drivers are in a rush to get to their destinations. This poses threats to you and your car. Unfortunately, safety lapses may cause accidents.
To ensure protection, a driver must provide insurance proof to the company hiring the individual. Certain food delivery services have added coverage for staff as well. However, things can get tricky when an accident occurs. There are some common reasons behind accidents.
- Speeding
- Driving recklessly
- Getting distracted or lost
- Tired from long hours
Who is Liable for an Accident with a Delivery Vehicle?
It may be challenging to determine liability during a crash with a delivery vehicle. States have varying rules. Usually, your collision insurance or PIP will cover damages from an accident. However, if the other driver uses a vehicle provided by their employer, the company’s insurance will likely cover the damage.
It is vital to contact a trusted lawyer quickly so that it is possible to determine the responsible party and how to file a delivery vehicle accident claim. The other person’s insurance may not cover all the expenses involved. A team of legal professionals can make sure that you are protected.
Steps to Take After an Accident with a Delivery Vehicle
Following an accident with a delivery vehicle, there are important steps to take so that you can preserve evidence and can gain compensation for your damages.
- You must identify witnesses. You should document names, contact information, vehicle/license information, and insurance information.
- It would help if you took pictures of the scene. They should include traffic signals, road conditions, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
- It would be best if you documented short statements from witnesses.
- You should call the police.
- You must seek medical treatment, especially when severe injuries are present. However, even small scrapes and bruises should be examined.
- You should report the accident to the delivery company that is involved.
- You must consult with a qualified attorney.
It would help if you never spoke with the other person’s insurance representative without legal guidance. Large companies pressure people to settle quickly for much less than they deserve.
Importance of Keeping Up with Medical Treatment
It would help if you remembered that it could take time for injuries to appear following an accident. Even though you feel fine one moment, it is common for hidden problems to show up down the road. Therefore, it is vital to seek medical attention after an accident. To receive full compensation for injuries, it must be documented that the accident was responsible. It is essential to receive an examination and diagnosis from a doctor. After receiving a treatment plan, you must follow it closely. This will help your recovery and keep anyone from calling your injuries into question.
Am I Able to File a Delivery Vehicle Accident Claim or Lawsuit?
It is crucial to determine if you can file a claim or lawsuit. Depending on circumstances, the delivery driver may be using their personal auto insurance. Also, the driver’s company may have basic coverage for the delivery vehicle.
The claim will be covered if a driver with their insurance policy covers accidents during deliveries. If damages exceed policy limits, you may be able to take advantage of your underinsured motorist insurance. This is usually what happens in a no-fault state. In these places, it is very difficult to file a lawsuit. However, full tort coverage and severe injuries may allow you to fight for extra compensation.
Dealing with insurance companies can be stressful and confusing, especially without help from someone who understands how things work. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can increase the likelihood of receiving the justice and compensation you deserve. A trusted law team will listen to your case and determine if you can file a delivery vehicle accident claim.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
After an accident with a delivery vehicle, you may have the right to receive compensation for any losses and expenses incurred.
- Medical bills
- Rehab/Physical therapy
- Home care
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Lower quality of life
Grounds for Filing a Delivery Vehicle Accident Claim
There are many cases where an attorney will determine the grounds for filing a claim. For instance, if an independent driver operates a delivery vehicle while drunk or impaired, the person is liable for an accident. If the driver uses an automobile owned by another party, that entity may have vicarious liability. In other words, that party is liable due to their ownership. However, if the company that owns the truck was negligent with hiring practices, this may also be grounds for liability.
In certain cases, a faulty automobile part in the driver’s car may have caused the accident. In this type of instance, the manufacturer may be held liable.
Since there are many grounds for a lawsuit, it is vital to have a qualified lawyer working with you to determine if filing a claim is possible.
Remember the Statute of Limitations
In most states, there is a set time that you have to pursue a lawsuit after an accident with a delivery vehicle. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a legal team quickly. Your attorney can start to compile evidence, including witness testimony and video surveillance. This will help establish a compelling case, so you receive adequate compensation.
Dealing with Insurance Companies While Filing a Claim
Sometimes, your personal auto insurance policy is used to cover your losses. Although you may feel that it is unfair that you are responsible for paying for an accident that was not your fault, some states have laws that require this action. For instance, certain states have no-fault laws dictating medical bills covered by the host vehicle’s insurance. However, when you are in an accident with a delivery driver responsible for the crash, you want compensation from the driver or their company.
Filing a claim can get complicated, especially with people driving delivery vehicles. For instance, if a company hires independent contractors who use personal vehicles for work, you may file a claim with the driver’s auto insurance policy provider.
If a vehicle is large, it is more likely to roll over in an accident. If your crash includes a big van or truck, certain dangers exist that may lead to significant injuries. Depending on the details of your case, you may seek compensation for property damages and medical expenses.
Negotiating with insurance companies often gets tricky. It is essential to have an experienced lawyer working on your behalf. An insurance company will pressure you to settle for a low amount. A qualified attorney will perform all communication with the insurance company and handle the process so that you receive everything that you deserve.
Working with a Qualified and Experienced Law Team
If you have been in an accident with a delivery vehicle, you may have questions about how to file a claim. These types of cases involve many considerations. Without help, it can be challenging to face the legal issues that follow, especially if you have suffered tremendous physical and emotional injuries.
Our team is ready to listen to your story and pinpoint the liable party. If you are entitled to compensation, we will begin the claims process. Thanks to our experience, we will determine a fair value for your case and gather evidence that will ensure justice. We will keep you updated every step and work tirelessly to ensure you receive what you deserve. Do not tackle the aftermath of an accident with a delivery vehicle alone. To start the process, call us today.