If you get involved in a traffic accident and find out that the other vehicle was being operated by a delivery driver, you may need to speak to a lawyer to understand your legal rights and options. These cases involve special laws compared to standard automobile accidents.
Working with an experienced Fresno delivery accident attorney at Jacoby & Meyers can ensure that you protect yourself and achieve the best possible results for your case. Get a free consultation with a Fresno personal injury lawyer, contact us today
The Rise of Delivery Vehicle Accidents in Fresno
The number of delivery vehicles on the roads in Fresno has grown exponentially over the last decade, with an upswing since the COVID-19 pandemic. E-commerce conglomerations like Amazon have tens of thousands of delivery vehicles on the road at all times, while food delivery services have also experienced an uptick in business.
On any given day, drivers and pedestrians in Fresno may encounter dozens of delivery drivers. Some operate recognizable delivery trucks and vans, while others – such as Uber Eats, Postmates and Amazon Flex drivers – operate their own personal vehicles. Unfortunately, driver negligence during deliveries can result in related traffic accidents.
Common Causes of Delivery Vehicle Accidents
Negligence, or the failure to act with proper care, can endanger the lives of everyone a driver encounters on a delivery. Common types of delivery driver negligence that can lead to Fresno car accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Using a cell phone or delivery app
- Reading delivery labels
- Drowsy driving
- Driving while intoxicated
- Improper parking
- Reckless driving
- Red-light running
- Speeding
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Unsafe lane changes
- Backing up without looking
Delivery drivers are often under time pressures to deliver goods, and may be operating their vehicles while fatigued. To make matters worse, many delivery drivers are independent contractors who are not adequately trained by their employers. Finally, vehicle maintenance issues from negligent car ownership can contribute to these collisions.
Types of Delivery Accidents in Fresno
At Jacoby & Meyers, we have decades of experience representing clients in all manner of car accident cases. We are experts in serious automotive accidents.
We can help if you’ve been involved in any type of delivery vehicle crash in Fresno, including:
- Amazon and package delivery truck crashes
- Food delivery driver accidents (DoorDash, UberEats, Postmates, Grubhub)
- Grocery delivery collisions
- Postal service vehicle accidents
- Independent contractor delivery crashes
Common delivery crash locations in Fresno include residential areas, intersections, crosswalks and busy downtown areas.
California Laws Governing Delivery Driver Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents involving delivery trucks and vans are governed by unique laws in California. Rather than only having a driver’s personal automobile insurance to cover your losses, a commercial policy may be available through the delivery company. However, many delivery drivers are classified as independent contractors, which can limit the liability of the corporation.
An important law to know as an injured victim is California’s statute of limitations. Code of Civil Procedures § 335.1 gives most accident victims no more than two years from the date of the accident (or injury discovery, if delayed) to file a personal injury claim. You should file an insurance claim following a delivery vehicle accident much sooner; ideally, as soon as possible.
Common Injuries in Delivery Vehicle Accidents
The forces exerted on vehicle occupants in a delivery vehicle accident can lead to a wide variety of injuries. The type and severity of the injuries vary based on the circumstances. A crash involving a commercial delivery truck, for example, may inflict more severe injuries than one with a standard car.
Common types of crash injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Soft-tissue damage
- Muscle sprains and strains
- Lacerations and scarring
- Bruises and contusions
- Burn injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Permanent paralysis
- Internal injuries and organ damage
Sadly, some delivery vehicle accidents in Fresno are fatal. If you lost a loved one in a deadly delivery crash, our wrongful death lawyers can help your family seek justice. Our law firm is equipped to handle any type of personal injury or wrongful death case in California, with more than 50 years of experience.
Determining Liability in Delivery Accident Cases
Unlike a typical car accident case that will only involve motor vehicle drivers, a delivery case can also involve various third parties, including companies or corporations. A delivery company could be held liable for your crash if it contributed in some manner, such as hiring unqualified drivers. A third party could also be to blame, such as the manufacturer of a defective vehicle part. Identifying all responsible parties can maximize your financial recovery.
Compensation Available for Delivery Accident Victims
Holding someone accountable for your delivery vehicle crash in Fresno could result in financial compensation (or damages) being awarded to you from an insurance provider. All drivers in California are required to carry minimum amounts of liability insurance on their personal policies. Delivery companies are also required to carry commercial insurance coverage.
You may be eligible for compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering damages
- Property damage recovery
- Wrongful death claims for fatal accidents
At Jacoby & Meyers, we recognize that justice is about more than just securing financial compensation. However, we also know how much a fair settlement can help an individual or family who is dealing with unexpected costs associated with a collision. We will work hard to get the case results you need.
Why You Need a Specialized Fresno Delivery Accident Attorney
Don’t trust your case – and, by extension, your future – with just any personal injury lawyer in Fresno. Choose the one that is best suited for your unique case and needs.
The following traits are signs that a lawyer is right for your delivery vehicle accident case:
- Understanding of delivery company policies
- Experience with app-based worker issues
- Knowledge of commercial insurance coverage
- Resources for accident investigation
- Track record in similar delivery cases
The lawyer you choose should have real-world experience navigating the legal processes involved in Fresno delivery accident claims, from initial case evaluation and evidence preservation to dealing with insurance companies and going to trial in Fresno County.
Contact Jacoby & Meyers for a Free Delivery Vehicle Accident Case Review
You don’t have to navigate your legal case alone as the injured victim of a delivery vehicle accident in Fresno. The attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers are prepared to help you with every step of the recovery process. Call (559) 545-0730 today to reach our local Fresno law office and request a free initial case consultation. We are located at 516 W Shaw Ave #200, Fresno, CA 93704.