The rising demand for e-commerce and rapid delivery services has inevitably led to a surge in delivery vehicles navigating the streets. From global giants like Amazon and UPS to local courier services, these delivery drivers face numerous challenges daily. While they work tirelessly to ensure packages arrive promptly, unfortunately, there is an increased risk of road accidents involving these vehicles. If you were seriously injured in an accident involving a delivery driver, a lawyer from Lacy Katzen LLP is here to help.
Delivery Driver Accident Lawyer | Serving Rochester & Upstate New York
If you have been seriously injured in an accident involving a delivery driver, you need a competent Rochester auto accident lawyer in your corner. The lawyers at Lacy Katzen LLP can effectively determine liability and fight for the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled.
Common Causes of Delivery Driver Accidents
Delivery driver accidents can happen for a wide variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes are as follows:
- High Delivery Volume: With the surge in online shopping, drivers often have tight schedules with numerous deliveries in a single shift. This pressure can lead to speeding, taking shortcuts, and other risky behaviors.
- Frequent Stops: Unlike regular drivers, delivery drivers stop frequently. In busy areas like Rochester’s downtown, this can disrupt the flow of traffic and increase collision risks.
- Distracted Driving: Use of GPS, communication with the dispatch unit, and checking delivery details can distract a driver, even if momentarily.
- Vehicle Size and Visibility: Large delivery vehicles can have bigger blind spots, making it challenging to see pedestrians, motorcycles and smaller vehicles.
- Unfamiliarity with Routes: Although modern GPS systems are advanced, they aren’t foolproof. Sometimes drivers can end up on roads not suitable for their vehicles or become confused in complex traffic situations.
- Weather Conditions: Rochester is known for its chilly winters. Snow, ice, and reduced visibility can be particularly challenging for delivery drivers who are often on the road irrespective of the weather.
Determining Liability in Delivery Driver Accidents
Accidents involving delivery drivers can often lead to a tangled web of liability. Here are some key considerations:
- Driver Responsibility: Like any other accident, if the delivery driver is found to have violated traffic rules, they can be held liable. For instance, if the driver was texting, speeding, or under the influence of alcohol, they may be at fault.
- Company Responsibility: An employer is typically held responsible for the negligence of its employee-driver. Sometimes, the company’s policies might also play a role by indirectly encouraging reckless behavior. If drivers are under unrealistic deadlines, are forced to drive for too many hours or aren’t given proper breaks, the company can be held responsible. Furthermore, failure to properly maintain a delivery vehicle, provide proper driver training or provide adequate safety equipment can also contribute to the company’s liability.
- Third-Party Responsibility: In some cases, another driver or even a pedestrian might be at fault. For instance, if another driver cuts off a delivery vehicle or a pedestrian darts into the road unexpectedly, they might bear some or all of the liability for any resulting accident.
Also key in determining fault in delivery driver accidents is the delivery driver’s position within the company. Some companies, such as Amazon or GrubHub consider their drivers independent contractors, in which case you’ll likely need to seek compensation from the driver’s insurance company. Other companies, such as UPS or FedEx, recognize their drivers as employees, meaning you likely can pursue compensation from the company itself. An experienced attorney can help you to determine who is responsible.
Contact a Delivery Driver Accident Lawyer
Don’t face the uphill battle of obtaining your rightful compensation on your own. If you’ve been hurt due to another party’s negligence, contact a dedicated delivery driver accident lawyer from Lacy Katzen LLP today to schedule your free initial consultation.
