Houston Delivery Vehicle Accident Attorney

Injured by an Amazon, UPS, or FedEx Driver in Houston, TX?

At the Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, we understand the growing concern regarding delivery vehicle accidents. With the rise in e-commerce, delivery trucks from companies like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS are on the road in record numbers. Unfortunately, this also means more accidents involving these vehicles, often resulting in significant injuries and property damage.

 If you or a loved one has been involved in a delivery vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Our Houston delivery vehicle accident lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you get the justice you deserve.

Contact us today at (713) 561-5454 to request a free case review with our team.

Common Delivery Companies

Delivery trucks are an integral part of daily life in Houston. With a large volume of packages being delivered to homes and businesses, it’s no surprise that several major delivery companies are involved in accidents. Some of the most common delivery companies involved in vehicle accidents include:

• Amazon: As one of the largest delivery service providers, Amazon’s network includes third-party contractors and direct employees who are frequently on Houston roads. The rush to meet delivery deadlines sometimes leads to negligence, which can result in serious accidents.
• FedEx: Known for its swift delivery services, FedEx operates a large fleet of trucks in Houston. These trucks are often involved in accidents due to tight schedules, large vehicle sizes, and driver fatigue.
• UPS: Another major player in the delivery service industry, UPS drivers are responsible for delivering millions of packages each day. While their brown trucks are a familiar sight, they are not immune to accidents caused by driver negligence.
• USPS: The United States Postal Service continues to deliver mail and packages across Houston, often navigating congested city streets. USPS trucks are occasionally involved in accidents due to various factors such as distracted driving or poor road conditions.

Local Courier Services: Smaller, local delivery companies that operate in Houston can also contribute to accidents. These companies often use smaller trucks or vans, but the risks remain the same if drivers fail to operate responsibly.

Common Causes of Delivery Vehicle Accidents

Delivery vehicle accidents are caused by various factors, many of which are related to the nature of the job and the pressures placed on drivers. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Fatigue: Delivery drivers often work long hours under strict deadlines. Fatigue can impair reaction time, decision-making abilities, and concentration, all of which increase the likelihood of an accident.
• Distracted Driving: Delivery drivers rely on GPS systems, phones, and other devices to find routes and communicate with their employers. Unfortunately, this reliance on technology can lead to distracted driving, putting other motorists at risk.
• Speeding: Due to tight schedules, many delivery drivers feel pressured to speed in order to complete their routes on time. Excessive speed increases the chances of losing control of the vehicle and makes it more difficult to stop in time to avoid a collision.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Delivery trucks cover significant distances daily, and failure to properly maintain them can lead to mechanical issues such as brake failure or tire blowouts. Inadequate maintenance can contribute to dangerous accidents.
• Inexperience: Some delivery drivers, especially those working for third-party contractors, may lack proper training or experience driving large vehicles. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to make mistakes or engage in unsafe driving behaviors.

Failure to Follow Traffic Laws: Running red lights, failing to yield, or engaging in other traffic violations can lead to delivery vehicle accidents. These actions can endanger other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists sharing the road.

Who is Liable for a Delivery Vehicle Accident?

Determining liability in a delivery vehicle accident can be complex, especially when large companies like Amazon, FedEx, or UPS are involved. The legal responsibility for a crash may fall on one or more parties, depending on the specific circumstances of the accident.

The Delivery Driver

In many cases, the delivery driver may be held responsible if they were negligent or reckless while driving. If the driver was speeding, distracted, or violating traffic laws, they could be found liable for the accident. In some instances, drivers may also be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, further exacerbating their liability.

The Delivery Company

Delivery companies like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS can also be held liable under the theory of vicarious liability. This legal doctrine holds employers responsible for the actions of their employees when they are acting within the scope of their employment. If the driver was performing work-related duties at the time of the accident, the delivery company could be held financially responsible for the injuries and damages caused.

Third-Party Contractors

Some companies, such as Amazon, hire third-party contractors to handle deliveries. Determining liability in these cases can be challenging, as contractors may not be direct employees of the company. However, it’s possible to hold these contractors accountable if they were negligent or if the company failed to properly vet or train them.

Vehicle Manufacturer or Maintenance Provider

If the accident was caused by a mechanical issue, such as brake failure or a tire blowout, liability may extend to the vehicle manufacturer or the company responsible for maintaining the truck. Defective vehicle parts or improper maintenance can contribute to accidents, and the responsible parties should be held accountable for their negligence.

What to Do After a Delivery Vehicle Accident

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a delivery vehicle, taking the following steps can help protect your legal rights and ensure you have the evidence needed to support your claim:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health should always be your top priority. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some injuries may not be apparent until hours or days later.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, and any relevant road conditions. This evidence can be crucial in building your case.
3. Exchange Information: Get the contact and insurance information of the delivery driver. It’s also helpful to obtain information about their employer, as this may play a role in determining liability.
4. Contact the Police: File a police report to officially document the accident. This report can be used as evidence when negotiating with insurance companies or filing a claim.
5. Consult with a Lawyer: Delivery vehicle accident cases can be complex, especially when dealing with large corporations. Hiring an experienced Houston delivery vehicle accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Omar Khawaja ensures you have the legal representation necessary to pursue compensation for your injuries.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a delivery vehicle accident, don’t face the legal process alone. Call (713) 561-5454 or contact us online today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.