How Common are Delivery Vehicle Accidents?

As modern consumers continue to purchase many of their goods and services online, delivery services have become an even more crucial aspect of our everyday lives. When we think of delivery trucks, we often think of companies and agencies like UPS, FedEx, DHL, and the United States Postal Service (USPS). With the ever-increasing number of delivery trucks on the road, it makes sense that the risk level for accidents is also on the rise.

If you’ve been injured in a delivery vehicle accident in Ohio, our Cincinnati truck accident lawyers can help you recover from the event by holding the negligent party accountable for their actions. Let’s take a look at how common these accidents are with some statistics from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Delivery Vehicle Accident Statistics

• In 2016, there were an estimated 475,000 police-reported crashes involving large trucks.
• The majority of these crashes occurred from Monday to Friday, during standard business hours.
• The top three shipping companies in the United States are UPS, FedEx, and DHL Express.
• Since 2012, the number of UPS-associated crashes has increased by 38 percent.
• FedEx delivery truck accidents have increased by 254.5 percent since 2012.
• The accidents associated with DHL Express have increased by 100 percent since 2012.
• According to the Annual Report to Congress from the USPS, 15.43 percent of their delivery vehicles were in accidents in 2017.

As you can see, there seems to be a correlation between the increase in delivery trucks on the road and the increase in delivery vehicle-related accidents. Now let’s take a look at why these accidents happen.

Common Causes of Delivery Truck Accidents

Delivery drivers are often pressured by tight deadlines on a daily basis. They also have to efficiently navigate urban, suburban, and rural roads depending on their coverage area, and deliver packages accurately. Because of these pressures, delivery drivers are susceptible to fatigued and distracted driving. When a driver isn’t focused completely on the road in front of them, the consequences can be serious. Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes of delivery truck accidents.

Speeding. For all drivers, including delivery drivers, speeding is the leading cause of car accidents. When a delivery driver is speeding in a vehicle that weighs upwards of ten tons, the chances of serious injury or death after an accident are higher.

Distracted Driving. Because of the pressure they’re under, delivery drivers may try to multitask while driving to avoid cutting into their delivery times. They may eat or make phone calls behind the wheel. Delivery drivers often require the use of GPS systems to get them to their next destination. This also takes the driver’s attention away from the road.

Impaired Driving. Impaired driving includes operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and driving fatigued. When a driver is impaired, they are risking the lives of everyone around them.

Improper Training. Professional drivers are not always easy to come by. As a result, companies may choose to skirt their responsibilities and neglect properly training their employees. Drivers who are not properly trained often lack the skills needed to prevent auto accidents.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance. It’s generally the responsibility of the driver and company to maintain their delivery vehicles. In the event a vehicle isn’t taken care of, mechanical failures like tire blowouts, electrical issues, or failed brakes can create deadly road circumstances.

Determining Liability After a Delivery Vehicle Accident in Cincinnati

After a delivery vehicle accident, a thorough investigation is necessary to determine who is at fault for the event that occurred. There may be multiple parties, in addition to the driver, that can be held accountable for the wreck.

In many cases, the delivery company can be held responsible for the actions of its employees. This is especially true if the company failed to properly screen their drivers prior to hiring. If the vehicle maintenance crew failed to correctly repair and replace faulty party on the truck, they may be held liable for the accident. In some instances, like if the collision occurred because of faulty manufacturing, the vehicle’s manufacturer may be held liable for the crash.

Large carriers like UPS or FedEx are heavily insured and have strong legal teams. This can make your claim process even more difficult. This is where having your own experienced legal team can help.

If you’ve been involved in a delivery truck accident, don’t delay in seeking legal advice and representation. Our truck accident lawyers in Cincinnati are prepared to help you understand your rights and seek the compensation you deserve for your accident-related injuries and financial burdens. Contact us today for more information.