As our world has experienced a significant rise in online shopping and home delivery services, you have likely noticed more delivery trucks out on the roads than ever before. While the increase in delivery drivers has undoubtedly made life more convenient, there has also now been an increase in accidents involving delivery trucks on the road. It’s important to know what to do and what your options are if you find yourself in a collision with one.
Potential Causes of Delivery Truck Accidents
When it comes to delivery truck accidents, there are usually a few different factors that come into play. First and foremost, delivery truck drivers are often driving in an unfamiliar area—and quickly. Both the expansiveness of the area they cover as well as the pressure of working under a tight deadline can lead to a driver who is not as defensive behind the wheel as someone in their car traveling on a usual route.
Other causes of truck accidents include:
Difficulty locating addresses.
Drivers may suddenly stop when an address is found or back up rather than circle the street.
Fatigue.
Working too many hours can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
Inexperience.
Driving a delivery truck can be more challenging than driving a car.
Improper loading.
If the cargo a driver is carrying is not loaded correctly, it can cause a rollover accident.
Lack of maintenance.
If the truck company does not regularly check tires or brakes, it can lead to a devastating accident.
What to Do After a Delivery Truck Accident
If you are in a delivery truck accident, take care of your medical needs first. Make sure both you and the truck driver are alright, and then go to the hospital, even if you don’t think you are injured. There are many injuries that result from such accidents that are not always immediately noticed. Be sure to call the police and document any and all evidence before you leave the scene of the crash. Lastly, contact a lawyer as soon as possible to help you build a case and help track paperwork and other documentation in case you decide to seek damages.
Types of Injuries Related to Delivery Truck Crashes
Injuries can range from minor to life-altering. Some possibilities include:
Head injuries.
From whiplash to concussions, the head is often affected in an accident.
Damage to the limbs.
Sprains and broken bones are common.
Back injuries.
Lower back pain may be experienced for months, and sometimes even permanent spinal cord injuries can happen.
Seeking Damages With the Help of a Lawyer
If you have decided to seek damages related to your accident with a delivery truck in Virginia, it is important to act quickly. The standard deadline to file a suit in Virginia is two years. This might seem like a long time, but it will go by quickly, especially if you are recovering from injury long-term.
Some of the damages you may be eligible to receive include:
- Reimbursement for all accident-related medical bills
- Injury-related loss of wages
- Payment for pain and suffering
- Compensation for permanent disability or disfigurement
- Damages equal to the cost to repair or replace your car
Have You Been Injured In A Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one was injured in a commercial truck accident you need to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Fairfax, Virginia personal injury law office at 703.277.2811 to schedule your free consultation. We help clients throughout Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia and look forward to helping you.