Google Screened
With Amazon reporting 1.6 million packages delivered per day and the United States Postal Service (USPS) processing and delivering 23.5 million packages per day, you are bound to run into these types of delivery trucks around town in your normal routine. But what happens when you quite literally collide with one of these vehicles? How do you know who to turn to see if you qualify for compensation?
First, consider the fact that there will be more than 1.6 million people employed as couriers and local delivery services in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, this does not just include Amazon and USPS. Consider those delivering for Door Dash, Uber Eats, FedEx, and countless private companies that make a living transporting luxuries and essentials across the country. So, it is only natural to assume those who spend most of their time on the road will be involved in a fair share of car accidents. But that does not mean that you have to pay the price.
How Do You Collect Compensation from a Car Accident Involving a Delivery Driver?
If you are in a car crash involving a delivery driver, there could be multiple ways to seek compensation.
First, you could go through your own insurance. Since New Jersey is a no-fault state which requires motorists to have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, you can use your own policy to cover medical bills, and any damages incurred to your vehicle. However, if your expenses exceed what your policy is willing to cover, you can consider a lawsuit, which could involve one or more parties, such as:
- The other driver. Depending on the type of driver and their insurance, this individual may be responsible for paying for your damages, injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages, disruption to quality of life, etc. Who you sue depends on whether the driver is a company employee or an independent contractor. If the driver is a company employee, you would likely involve their employer. If the driver is an independent contractor, you would likely sue them directly and negotiate with the insurance company for a settlement.
- The company the individual is driving for. If the driver is not an independent contractor but an employee, it is possible to seek damages, including pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical bills. However, large corporations such as Amazon have unlimited resources to fight a claim, so it is important to know the basis on which you are seeking compensation and the exact cost of your expenditures. Additionally, a company that knowingly hires someone with a tarnished driving record or an individual who ignores safety protocols also could be on the hook for negligence. This is where an experienced lawyer can come in handy to get what is rightfully owed to you.
- The auto parts manufacturer. Faulty or defective parts made by the manufacturer may play a role in the crash in which you were involved. There is no sense in trying to figure this detail out on your own. Let a lawyer help track down the answers you need to make an informed decision.
- The maintenance company. Whether independent or internal, there may be another party to include in a lawsuit—the individuals who work on the company fleet. Whether they ignored protocols or skipped steps to speed up routine maintenance, it could play a role in your situation.
What Should I Do if I Am Involved in an Accident with a Delivery Driver?
As with any accident, there are important steps to take before you even leave the scene of the accident to assist your case.
First, evaluate yourself and anyone else involved to determine whether anyone is injured. Even if you think you may have a minor injury, seek medical attention promptly, as it could turn into something more serious. Also, make sure to call the police to report injuries as well as to file an official report. Don’t forget to take photos of the scene and any damage to vehicles, too.
While waiting for the authorities, be sure to collect contact information for witnesses and any drivers involved in the incident, but be careful not to divulge too much information about who you believe is at fault or the extent of your injuries. Once you arrive home, be sure to write down as much information as you can remember about the entire incident. In the coming days and weeks, be sure to document any expenses, injuries, days of missed work, and car repairs. Although it may all seem fresh in your mind, the details will likely fade over time, but your documentation will not.
Let the Atlantic City Car Accident Lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm Help You Sort Out the Details of Your Car Accident
Car accidents can be confusing enough, but when you involve multiple parties who may be at fault, it can quickly become a logistical nightmare. Work with the Atlantic City car accident lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm for assistance and advice with your claim. Call 609-926-3300 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. With our office located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, Woodbury, and South Jersey.