In our fast-paced world, delivery services like FedEx and UPS are indispensable. Their brown and purple trucks are a constant presence on our roads, ensuring packages reach their destinations. However, with thousands of vehicles on the road daily, accidents are an unfortunate reality. If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a FedEx or UPS vehicle in Missouri or Illinois, you might be facing significant medical bills, lost wages, and immense pain and suffering.
At Sansone and Lauber, we understand the complexities of these cases. Suing a large corporation like FedEx or UPS can be intimidating, but you have rights, and our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process.
The Unique Challenges of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Accidents involving commercial delivery vehicles differ significantly from standard car accidents. Here’s why:
- Serious Injuries: FedEx and UPS trucks are considerably larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. The sheer force involved in a collision with one of these vehicles often leads to severe, even catastrophic, injuries. This can mean higher medical expenses, longer recovery times, and a greater impact on your life.
- Complex Liability: Determining who is at fault can be intricate. While the driver’s negligence might be a factor (e.g., distracted driving, speeding, fatigue), the company itself, a third-party contractor, or even a maintenance company could also share responsibility. FedEx and UPS often classify their drivers as independent contractors, which can add layers of complexity in establishing corporate liability. An experienced attorney will investigate thoroughly to identify all potentially liable parties.
- Deep Pockets and Aggressive Defense: Large corporations like FedEx and UPS are backed by substantial insurance policies and have dedicated legal teams focused on minimizing payouts. They will often employ tactics to devalue or deny your claim. Having skilled legal representation is crucial to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
Common Causes of Accidents Involving Delivery Trucks
While every accident is unique, some common factors contribute to collisions with FedEx and UPS vehicles:
- Driver Fatigue: Delivery drivers often work long hours, especially during peak seasons, leading to fatigue and impaired judgment.
- Distracted Driving: Like any driver, delivery personnel can be distracted by phones, GPS, or other in-cab activities.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Tight delivery schedules can sometimes pressure drivers to speed or engage in reckless driving.
- Improper Cargo Loading: Shifting or improperly secured cargo can lead to loss of control or other hazards.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Negligence in maintaining the vehicle’s brakes, tires, or other critical components can cause accidents.
What to Do After an Accident with a FedEx or UPS Vehicle
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a delivery truck, here are crucial steps to take to protect your potential claim:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is paramount. Get thoroughly examined by a doctor, even if you don’t feel immediate pain. Some injuries may not manifest until later, and medical documentation is vital for your claim.
- Report the Accident: Call 911 to report the accident to the police. A police report provides an official record of the incident.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene:
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.
- Obtain contact information from any witnesses.
- Exchange insurance and contact information with the delivery driver.
- Do NOT Discuss Fault or Accept Early Settlements: Avoid making statements about the accident, admitting fault, or discussing your injuries with anyone other than medical professionals and your attorney. Insurance companies will try to use anything you say against you. Do not accept any quick settlement offers, as they are almost always far less than your case is worth.
- Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: This is perhaps the most critical step. A skilled attorney can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly to determine liability.
- Gather crucial evidence, including police reports, medical records, black box data, and potentially accident reconstruction expert testimony.
- Handle all communications with the insurance companies.
- Calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills (past and future), lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Negotiate for a fair settlement.
- File a personal injury lawsuit if negotiations are unsuccessful.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations
It’s vital to be aware of the “statute of limitations,” which is the deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit.
- Missouri: Generally, you have 5 years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Illinois: Generally, you have 2 years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.
While these deadlines may seem generous, it’s always best to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Delaying can make it harder to gather crucial evidence and may jeopardize your claim.
How Sansone and Lauber Can Help
At Sansone and Lauber, we have a proven track record of fighting for the rights of accident victims in Missouri and Illinois. We have the knowledge, resources, and experience to stand up to large corporations like FedEx and UPS and their insurance companies. Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a FedEx or UPS vehicle, don’t face the legal battle alone. Contact Sansone and Lauber today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you.
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