In the world of shipping and logistics, United Parcel Service (UPS) plays a crucial role in delivering packages to millions of people around the globe. However, the sheer volume of UPS trucks on the road increases the likelihood of accidents, leading to a growing demand for legal representation in the form of UPS truck accident attorney.
This article explores the responsibilities and importance of these attorneys, providing their role in the legal landscape to help the victims. Read on for more information!
What Is UPS Truck Accidents?
UPS truck accidents can happen due to various factors. The possible factors can include driver fatigue, vehicle malfunctions, adverse weather conditions, or even negligent behavior on the road.
When such accidents occur, they often lead to severe injuries, property damage, and significant legal ramifications. UPS truck accident attorney specializes in navigating the complex legal terrain surrounding these incidents.
What Are Common Cases of UPS Truck Accidents?
There are numerous ways in which an encounter with a UPS truck can lead to an accident. Several common types of truck accidents encompass:
- Intersection Truck Accidents: Accidents involving UPS trucks and other vehicles can occur at intersections, especially when the truck driver disregards a red light or a stop sign.
- Collisions in Blindspots: Each vehicle possesses areas where the driver’s view is obstructed, preventing from observing other vehicles passing by. UPS vehicles with a more extensive blind spot compared to the average passenger vehicle. This situation can result in accidents when UPS drivers decide to change lanes.
- Lane Change Accidents: Collisions with other vehicles may happen as UPS trucks change lanes if the truck driver neglects to check blind spots or signal appropriately.
- Rear-End Collisions: UPS trucks might collide with other vehicles from behind, particularly when the truck driver follows too closely or fails to apply brakes promptly.
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: Commercial truck drivers can unintentionally collide with pedestrians or bicyclists if they overlook their presence.
- Delivery-Related Accidents: UPS trucks may be implicated in accidents during the delivery process, such as when the driver parks unlawfully or negligently. Additionally, accidents can occur if packages fall off the truck, causing other vehicles to swerve or collide.
What Are Causes of UPS Truck Accidents?
Similar to other types of automobile accidents, incidents involving UPS delivery trucks can result from driver errors or various contributing factors. Despite the training provided to UPS delivery truck drivers on vehicle operation, mistakes can still occur.
Negligent driving encompasses behaviors such as distracted driving, speeding, and non-compliance with traffic laws. Common actions that often contribute to UPS delivery truck accidents involve:
- Inadequate or substandard maintenance of commercial vehicles
- Equipment malfunctions, such as worn brakes or parking brakes
- Neglecting safety checks
- Texting while driving
- Adverse weather conditions
- Improper loading of cargo
- Failure to engage the parking brake during deliveries
- Drivers reversing on the road when retracing their route after passing a delivery address
- Disregarding traffic laws
- UPS truck drivers fail to yield when entering traffic, particularly from driveways
- Fatigued or drowsy drivers
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
If a UPS truck driver is responsible for an accident resulting in your injury. Concerns about providing for your family during recovery, covering medical expenses, and potentially replacing a damaged vehicle may arise, adding stress to an already challenging situation.
Who is Eligible to Pursue Claims for UPS Truck Accidents?
Those who have sustained injuries have the right to file claims against the trucking companies, their drivers, or their insurance providers. The injured parties encompass:
- Drivers of other vehicles,
- Motorcyclists, and
- Pedestrians.
Additionally, if your loved one lost their life in a collision involving a commercial vehicle, you might have the option to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit.
What Are Key Responsibilities of UPS Truck Accident Attorney?
Here are some responsibilities of a UPS truck accident attorney to help the victims:
1. Investigation and Evidence Gathering
UPS truck accident attorney delves into the details of each case, conducting thorough investigations to determine the root cause of the accident. This investigation includes collecting evidence such as accident reports, statements from witnesses, and any available surveillance footage.
2. Liability Assessment
Identifying liability is a critical aspect of handling UPS truck accident cases. Attorneys evaluate the roles of all parties involved, including the UPS driver, other motorists, and potentially even the manufacturer of the vehicle or its components.
3. Insurance Negotiations
UPS, like any large corporation, carries insurance coverage to handle accident claims. UPS truck accident attorney engages in negotiations with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for their clients, covering medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other damages.
4. Litigation Support
In cases where a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, a UPS truck accident attorney provides litigation support. They file lawsuits, represent their clients in court, and advocate for their rights throughout the legal process.
How Are the UPS Truck Safety Guidelines and Regulations?
Annually, UPS drivers cover millions of miles, making it inevitable that accidents may occur. What distinguishes UPS accidents from typical car collisions is the considerable size and weight of the average delivery vehicle.
The standard UPS delivery truck weighs between 16,000 and 24,000 pounds. This substantial mass translates to a significant force transferred during collisions, contributing to the often severe consequences of such incidents.
In recognition of the risks associated with trucks, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) have implemented regulations to uphold safety standards.
They are for large tractor-trailers and other commercial vehicles traversing the nation and local neighborhoods in LA. These regulations encompass:
- Requirements for driver training
- Standards for truck repair and maintenance
- Mandatory maintenance of driver records detailing hours of service
- Implementing the prevention of drug and alcohol programs for drivers
Since their inception, these rules and regulations have undeniably prevented numerous accidents, preserving countless lives. Despite these efforts, however, serious injuries or fatalities still occur in UPS accidents.
Get Your Best UPS Truck Accident Attorney!
A UPS truck accident attorney is integral in ensuring that victims receive fair compensation and justice for the physical, emotional, and financial toll of accidents involving UPS vehicles. These attorneys continue to employ cutting-edge strategies to navigate the complexities of UPS truck accident cases successfully for the victims.
If you and your loved one have experienced a UPS truck accident, do not hesitate to contact a good truck accident attorney. Their role remains pivotal in upholding accountability and promoting safety in the ever-expanding world of shipping and logistics.
