If an Amazon, UPS or FedEx delivery driver hits you in California, the name on the vehicle is only the beginning of the investigation. A delivery-driver accident claim can involve questions about the driver’s conduct, employment, vehicle ownership and insurance coverage. In this video, attorney Norman Gregory Fernandez explains why identifying the responsible parties matters.
Who may be responsible for a delivery-driver accident?
The driver may be responsible if negligent driving caused the collision. Depending on the facts, a driver’s employer, another business or a vehicle owner may also have legal responsibility. A branded van does not automatically establish which company employed the driver or which insurance policy applies.
Delivery operations can involve employees, contractors and separate delivery businesses. A lawyer can investigate the relationships between those parties and whether the driver was working when the crash occurred. Those details need evidence; they should not be assumed from a logo, uniform or package.
Evidence to preserve after the collision
Put safety and appropriate medical care first. If you can safely do so, preserve photographs of the vehicles, license plates, company markings, crash location and visible damage. Keep the driver’s contact and insurance information, witness details and any report number. Save dashcam footage and nearby-camera information before recordings are overwritten.
Keep medical records, bills, proof of missed work and communications from insurers or delivery companies. An attorney may also seek work-related records, vehicle information and other evidence relevant to responsibility and coverage. Do not put yourself at risk trying to investigate at the scene.
Which insurance applies?
There may be more than one potential source of coverage, but coverage is not guaranteed merely because a delivery company is involved. The applicable policies, the vehicle’s use and the relationships between the parties all matter. Avoid assuming that the driver’s personal auto policy is the only policy available—or that a large company must pay every claim.
Before giving a recorded statement, clarify who is requesting it and which claim it concerns. Your own insurer may have cooperation requirements under your policy. A request from another party’s insurer raises different issues. Be truthful, avoid guessing, and get advice about your particular obligations.
What losses should be evaluated?
A claim evaluation may include medical expenses, lost earnings, future care supported by evidence, and the effect of the injuries on daily life. Responsibility, available insurance and the proof of each loss can affect the outcome. There is no standard settlement amount for every delivery-driver collision.
Keep an accurate record of symptoms and limitations, and tell your attorney about prior injuries or conditions that may be relevant. Before accepting an offer or signing a release, understand which claims are being resolved and whether the agreement will prevent further recovery.
Speak with a California personal injury attorney
Norman Gregory Fernandez has practiced law since June 23, 1997 and represents injured people throughout California. For a free consultation about an Amazon, UPS, FedEx or other delivery-driver accident, call 800-816-1529 or contact our office.
This article provides general information, not legal advice. Every case depends on its facts. No attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this page or contacting the firm, and no result is guaranteed.
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The Law offices of Norman Gregory Fernandez & Associates has almost 3 decades of experience handling personal injury cases all over the state of California. We have handled thousands of cases and obtained millions of dollars in settlements and judgments for our clients. Call now for a no pressure free consultation with an actual attorney. Call 800-816-1529 extension 1, click the chat button on the left, or click here to submit your case.
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