An incredible increase in home deliveries and online shopping during the Covid-19 pandemic has increased the number of delivery trucks we see on the roadway. This has led to a surge in accidents caused by delivery trucks. Companies like FedEx, UPS, USPS, and Amazon are reaping significant profits as a direct result. However, they are also struggling to meet the logistical challenges associated with the “Just In Time” delivery model.
Consequently, managers are taking training shortcuts, and drivers spend too much time on the road, regardless of whether the pressure is actual or perceived. Negligent driving and vehicle maintenance always lead to an increase in accidents. However, filing a personal injury claim against these companies also involves unique difficulties.
Delivery Truck Crash Statistics
The increased demand for delivery services contributed to a rise in commercial truck-related accidents during 2020. Recently released US Department of Transportation statistics show that single-car crashes increased by nine percent and fatal car crashes rose by four percent over 2019. The study also showed that the overall severity of accident injuries increased while the mean number of accidents decreased 12.2 percent nationwide.
Indeed, an investigation by ProPublica found more than 60 accidents since June 2015 involving Amazon delivery contractors that resulted in serious injuries, including 10 deaths.
Even major delivery corporations are reporting a rise in violations and accidents. Fed Ex reported 153 accidents involving injuries, with eight involving fatalities over the last 24 months. Auditing procedures revealed the company had over 1,350 maintenance, driver fitness, and local ordinance violations.
The danger is even greater for pedestrians, bicycle riders, and motorcycle riders who risk being struck by inattentive, careless or reckless truck drivers in the busy NYC metropolitan area.
Recent Delivery Truck Accident Injuries in New York and New Jersey
Delivery truck driver accidents are more common than most people think. In many cases, a person's life changes in an instant. Here are a few recent stories involving delivery truck accidents in New York and New Jersey:
Bronx Man on Scooter Killed by Amazon Truck
On June 20, 2021, an Amazon truck driver struck a man riding an electric scooter in the Bronx. The accident happened at approximately 7:15PM at night. Unfortunately, the individual driving the scooter was pronounced dead at the scene.
DHL Driver Critically Injures Man on the Upper West Side
A DHL delivery truck hit a man as he crossed a street on the Upper West Side on June 30, 2021, critically injuring him. The 36-year-old victim was traveling on Broadway at W. 73rd St. when he was struck by the southbound driver, who also remained at the scene. Paramedics transported the male victim to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition.
Fresh Direct Truck Injures Two Manhattan Pedestrians
A Fresh Direct truck driver struck a 62-year-old man and a 13-year-old boy in Manhattan on June 16, 2021. They were crossing East 57th Street and Park Avenue as they headed westbound at an intersection when they were struck. The driver continued for about one block north of the accident before stopping. Both victims were treated at Weill Cornell Medical Center where they were in critical condition and later upgraded to stable.
USPS Blinds Toms River Teen, Case Settles for $2 Million
A jury recently sided with a Toms River, New Jersey teenager after a US Postal Service mail truck left him permanently blinded in one eye. The teen, age 13 at the time of the accident, received a favorable verdict on June 28, 2021, to the tune of $2 million. He was a backseat passenger in November 2016 when their vehicles collided.
Amazon Tractor-Trailer Crash Leaves 2 People Critically Injured
On July 20, 2021, two New Jersey residents suffered from critical injuries after they allegedly slammed into a parked Amazon tractor-trailer truck. The car was pinned underneath the truck bed in Paramus around 1:15 a.m. Both front-seat passengers were transported to a local hospital for critical injuries, while both rear passengers suffered minor injuries.
What to Do If You Experience a Delivery Truck Accident
The events following an accident are critical. Not only are you trying to recall and follow the rules that apply to an accident, but you or your passengers may be dealing with traumatic injuries. Knowing what to do ahead of time can make the situation more manageable if the unthinkable ever happens to you.
Taking the following steps if you get hit by an Amazon or FedEx truck, among others:
Step 1. Call 9-1-1
It is critical to obtain medical attention right away if you have been in a severe accident. Calling 911 and requesting an emergency response is the quickest way to do so. After an accident, your health should be your top priority at this point. Seek treatment and listen to your doctor's treatment plans.
Step 2. Call the Local Police
Even if you decide not to call 911 for immediate medical assistance, you should request a police officer's response. The officer will examine the scene, interview both drivers, and compile an incident report. This report is priceless because it provides an objective third-party assessment of what occurred. However, you should also avoid making self-incriminating statements.
Step 3. Exchange Information with the Delivery Driver
Obtaining the other driver's license and insurance information is a must. Although the police will ask for it, immediate availability allows you to act quickly on the insurance claim process. It also offers your personal injury lawyer more information about the at-fault parties if you decide to hire an attorney.
Step 4. Gather Evidence If Possible
If you can, take accident scene evidence. Prioritize getting medical help, but you should take photographs, video evidence, and eyewitness names and information while waiting for the police. However, the police will also perform this service in case you are unable.
Step 5. Speak to an Attorney with Experience
Discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer who has experience in these types of cases. FedEx and Amazon are large corporations with seasoned legal counsel. They typically have insurance coverage but their insurance companies are also huge corporations that do not have your best interests in mind. You should hire legal representation if you are not getting the compensation or treatment you need. Your lawyer will value your case while protecting your rights against taking an unfair settlement in the first place.
Call Hunt & Associates If You Have Been Injured By
A FedEx or Amazon Delivery Truck
The legal team at Hunt & Associates, LLC has years of experience going up against major corporations in the United States. You deserve a fair award for the losses you suffered. Get a Free Case Evaluation today by calling (866) 456-HUNT or send us a private message directly.
Hablamos Español o puedes contactarnos aquí.
