It’s important to understand how serious a UPS truck accident can be. UPS delivery trucks are large and heavy commercial vehicles. Crashes that involve them can result in severe injuries or, in the worst cases, even death.
In cities like Texas, which is the second-largest state in the U.S., UPS trucks are constantly on the road making deliveries on highways like the I-10, I-35, and I-45. This increases the risk of accidents in high traffic areas.
Why You Need Legal Help After a UPS Truck Accident
Navigating a claim against a UPS truck is not the same as dealing with a car accident case. They have a team of lawyers and insurance adjusters ready to minimize the payout. That is why working with an experienced UPS truck accident attorney serving in Texas is crucial.
They can:
- Investigate the accident.
- Gather evidence (driver logs, GPS data, and surveillance footage).
- Build a strong case.
Victims can settle for far less than what they deserve without proper legal representation.
Common Causes of UPS Truck Accidents
UPS delivery drivers work under strict deadlines. This constant time pressure can sometimes lead to unsafe driving decisions that can put everyone on the road at risk. Understanding the common causes can help victims recognize how negligence may have played a role in a crash.
The first major factor is driver fatigue. Long shifts and extended routes can exhaust drivers physically and mentally. This slows their reaction time, which leads to fatal accidents.
The second one is distracted driving. This also contributes to many accidents. Factors like:
- Using a GPS system
- Scanning packages
- Handling handheld devices
Can divert the driver’s attention, which leads to an accident.
Apart from those that, mechanical issues can play a huge role too. Because if the vehicle is poorly maintained, it could lead to brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
One of the most challenging parts of a UPS truck accident claim is determining who is responsible. Commercial truck accidents involve multiple liable parties.
- The UPS driver may be held responsible if negligence caused the collision.
- The employer may be responsible for the actions of the driver if the crash occurred while the driver was doing some job-related duties.
- If poor maintenance of the vehicle caused the accident, then the company responsible for maintaining the vehicle may also share liability.
Steps to Take After a UPS Truck Accident
Taking the right steps immediately can protect both your health and legal rights.
First, call 911 and request medical assistance. Even if your injuries seem minor, don’t hesitate to get a checkup.
A medical evaluation also creates important documentation linking your injuries to the accident.
Try to document the scene if you are physically okay. Take clear photos of:
- Vehicles
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs
- Skid marks
- Property damage
Next, when dealing with insurance companies, be a little cautious. Avoid getting statements or signing any documents from UPS’s insurance adjusters before speaking with a lawyer.
Remember, insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize payouts or shift blame.
An important step in a UPS truck accident is to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. States like Texas impose a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. This means you have limited time to take legal action.
In such a situation acting quickly allows your lawyer to:
- Preserve evidence
- Investigate liability
- Build a strong case
Key Takeaways
- UPS truck accidents are dangerous because the delivery trucks are large and heavy.
- Legally moving through a claim against a UPS truck is not the same as a car accident claim.
- Common causes for UPS truck accidents are driver fatigue, distracted driving, and mechanical issues.
- This kind of accident involves multiple parties, like the driver, the employer, etc., so it’s hard to determine who is liable.
- Hiring a UPS truck accident lawyer can help you secure your rights and fair compensation.
