California UPS Truck Accident Lawyers
- PAY NOTHING UPFRONT
- OVER $500 MILLION RECOVERED
- ZERO-FEES UNTIL WE WIN
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Powerful UPS Truck Accident Lawyers Fighting For The Average Joe
Americans rely on the trucking industry for its benefits to the national economy and their personal needs. United Parcel Service, Inc., or UPS, is one of the leading delivery companies in the country. UPS operates over 120,000 vehicles, including delivery vans, tractor-trailers, and box trucks. Given the prevalence of UPS delivery trucks on our roads and highways, accidents with them are expected to happen. While the company conducts annual safety driver training, some delivery drivers might engage in negligent actions that lead to crashes. Call our UPS truck accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 if you’re injured in one.
At Arash Law, your well-being is our priority. In addition to helping you seek compensation for your injuries and property damage, we’ll also connect you with the top doctors in your area to ensure you receive the best possible care. We’ll also handle the legal process, including gathering evidence, talking to witnesses, and negotiating with insurers on your behalf. This way, you can focus on healing rather than stressing about your personal injury claim.
Why Hire Our UPS Truck Accident Attorneys To Win Your Legal Claim?
We Have A Proven Track Record Of Success
We’ve won over $500,000,000 for injured clients who sought our help. Our UPS truck accident lawyers apply their expertise to each case they handle. They work tirelessly to secure fair compensation for their clients and won’t rest until they win your case.
We Will Advocate For Your Best Interest
In 2023, UPS made over $91 billion in revenue, and the business will stop at nothing to maintain its profitability. There is no guarantee that the company’s insurers won’t use intimidation tactics or make inadequate settlement offers. If you hire one of our skilled UPS truck accident attorneys for your case, we’ll do everything we can to secure what you’re rightfully owed. We’ll protect your best interests at the negotiation table or in court.
We Offer A Contingent Fee Payment Structure
Arash Law, under the guidance of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., offers injured victims the opportunity to seek justice without high financial barriers. Our personal injury attorneys work on contingency, including those who specialize in UPS truck accidents. Our clients don’t need to pay any legal fees upfront. We’ll only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. This fee arrangement assures you that our interests are aligned with yours. It also motivates our attorneys to treat your case carefully and diligently.
We Have A Multilingual Team
Our personal injury law firm can help you even if English isn’t your first language. Our talented and reliable multilingual staff can communicate with you using your first language. Some of our 150-strong team members can speak Spanish, Korean, Tagalog, Italian, Farsi, and other languages. They can help translate and interpret correspondence, such as medical appointments and depositions.
What Is UPS?
United Parcel Service, Inc. is a Fortune 500 freight company originating from Atlanta. Founded in 1907, it’s now one of the biggest shipping couriers in the world, operating in over 200 countries, including territories in North and South America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific regions. Although UPS is known for delivery delays, it serves over 10 million daily customers worldwide. In 2023, UPS reported delivering an average of 22.3 million packages daily, earning them more than $91 billion in revenue that year.
One reason for delays is that UPS vehicles sometimes get involved in accidents. The company reportedly invests an estimated $409 million annually in driver safety training, ensuring its operators are up-to-date with driving standards and prepared for efficient and safe transportation. However, not all UPS truck drivers practice defensive driving on the road. UPS has about 330,000 Teamsters-represented employees, most of whom are truck drivers and warehouse workers. In 2023, UPS recognized over 10,000 drivers who collectively covered billions of miles without incident.
Are UPS Truck Accidents Dangerous?
Similar to other truck accidents, collisions involving UPS vehicles can result in significant losses and injuries. UPS trucks travel thousands of miles daily in the United States alone, shipping packages from one location to another. Hundreds of UPS vehicles travel on US roads and highways at any given time. Given their prevalence, it makes sense to think that UPS truck accidents could occur — and they do.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) latest annual reporting period, UPS trucks traveled around 3.3 billion miles within and between the United States and Canada. In the 24 months leading up to August 15, 2024, 2,618 accidents involved UPS vehicles in the country. Among these incidents, 72 were fatal, and 892 resulted in injuries.
For our UPS truck accident lawyers, these data are not merely numbers. They represent injured victims, lives that were taken way too soon, and grieving families. Our injury law firm in California stands by injured victims and their families in this dark and difficult period in their lives.
We will provide the support and guidance you need to pursue the compensation you deserve and help you recover from your pain and suffering. We can help you through this challenging time, starting with a free initial consultation. Reach out to us by calling (888) 488-1391.
How Can UPS Truck Accident Lawyers Help Injured Victims?
Clarifying Your Rights
No one expects the average Joe to understand complex laws and regulations involving trucks and personal injury claims. If you have concerns about your rights as an injured victim, a knowledgeable lawyer can answer your questions. Our UPS truck accident attorneys have decades of combined experience that you can rely on.
During your initial consultation, they can review your situation and tell you if your claim is valid. Our personal injury lawyers have the knowledge and expertise to handle UPS truck accident claims effectively. They can also inform you about your legal options as an injured victim and what you can receive from the responsible parties.
Determining Your Case’s Worth
A case involving an accident with a UPS vehicle is more complex than an average car collision case. Still, the underlying principle remains the same — injured victims deserve financial compensation. Our UPS truck accident attorneys have the means and expertise to estimate the amount you are entitled to. They will consider your medical-related expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our lawyers will substantiate these with solid proof (such as receipts, payroll invoices, and others), which will be included in your demand letter.
Investigating The Accident
Once you sign your case with us, our personal injury attorneys will launch an in-depth investigation into your UPS truck accident. They will collect key evidence, including:
- Photos and videos
- CCTV, dash cam, or traffic footage
- Eyewitness statements
- The truck’s travel and cargo logs
- Black box data
- The truck’s maintenance records
- Company records
- Warehouse records
- Police report
- Medical reports
Furthermore, they will use their connections with professional accident reconstructionists, financial consultants, and medical experts. Their expert opinion will help establish fault and liability in your UPS truck accident case.
Establishing Liability
As mentioned earlier, truck accidents are inherently more complex than other types of traffic collisions, especially when huge companies like UPS are involved. They are unlike crashes involving smaller cars, where you can usually tell from the get-go who was at fault. UPS truck accidents often involve numerous variables to consider when establishing liability.
Your UPS truck accident attorney will use the evidence gathered during the investigation to connect the dots about your accident. They will analyze the data piece by piece, leaving no stone unturned until they identify who’s responsible for your injuries and losses.
Handling All Communications
When recovering from a traumatic accident, the last thing you need is to be bombarded by calls from UPS representatives and insurers. Let our lawyers take over this aspect of the process for you. When you hire our UPS truck accident attorneys, they will handle all communications regarding your case moving forward. This will not only help you focus better on healing, but it will also help you avoid saying or doing anything that can hurt your case.
Negotiating With Insurers
Negotiations are an integral part of the claims process and are usually the most stressful. One thing you should know about insurance companies is that they’ll do whatever it takes to protect their bottom line. You can expect that negotiations with them will not be a walk in the park, especially when you’re by yourself. Our UPS truck accident lawyers want you to know you are not alone in this fight.
By hiring an attorney from one of the biggest law firms in California, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with care. We will protect your rights and tirelessly fight for your best interests every step of the way. Insurance companies won’t be able to take advantage of you when you have a strong ally who has your back. With a good personal injury lawyer handling your case, insurers will think twice before offering lowball settlements.
Representing You In Court
The vast majority of our personal injury cases conclude in out-of-court negotiations. Regardless, our UPS truck accident attorneys are trial-ready. They’ve handled hundreds of personal injury lawsuits involving trucks and other big corporations and won awards for our clients, including winning nearly $50,000,000 against Walmart. During court hearings, let our UPS truck accident attorneys stand up for you and fight for what you deserve.
Paz v. Airfax Logistics (settled on 5/26/2020) – settlement in a case involving a client who was involved in a trucking accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury and other trauma.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Most Common Types Of UPS Truck Accidents
Each UPS truck accident is unique, which means that the resulting injuries, losses, and other damages can vary depending on the nature of the accident. Here are some of the most common types of accidents that involve trucks:
Delivery-Related Accidents
UPS trucks make numerous stops to deliver packages. When they have to make a stop, some drivers illegally park in inappropriate spots, such as near fire hydrants, on driveways, or even in bike lanes. This negligent practice can obstruct traffic and result in accidents.
While they are expected to act with the utmost care, some delivery drivers remain careless when loading packages. Packages not properly secured inside might fall off while the truck is moving, especially if the door is not properly closed. A falling object can cause nearby drivers to swerve suddenly, potentially leading to a collision.
Trailer Sways Or Fishtailing Accidents
UPS also uses tractor-trailers for large-scale deliveries between its distribution centers. Compared to typical passenger vehicles, these UPS trucks have a much higher center of gravity when fully loaded. Trailers with high central gravity are more prone to swaying when driving through winding roads or steering away from an obstacle at the last second. These unexpected movements can trigger a flurry of panic among nearby drivers, potentially resulting in an accident. Trailer sway can lead to catastrophic injuries, especially on high-speed highways.
Cargo Shifts
When cargo is not properly distributed or secured, it can move suddenly if the truck makes a sharp turn, accelerates, or brakes suddenly. Unbalanced trucks are more likely to roll over or jackknife in these situations. These types of accidents can be prevented through regular inspections and compliance with loading regulations.
Our UPS truck accident lawyers have handled cases where liability fell on the driver and/or the company itself. Both have responsibilities to prevent cargo-related accidents. UPS warehouse employees must load and secure their cargo to prevent shifting during transit. Before hitting the road, UPS and its drivers are responsible for ensuring the cargo is properly loaded, balanced, and within legal weight limits.
Blindspot Collisions
Larger trucks, such as those used by UPS, have significantly larger blind spots than the average passenger car. Their blind spots can extend several feet along the side and behind the vehicle. Trucks are usually equipped with technologies to give drivers better visibility, but truckers must still be extra careful.
Truck drivers should be cautious of smaller vehicles driving on either side to avoid a potential accident. Changing lanes or merging without checking these blind spots can result in collisions with vehicles in adjacent lanes. Reversing in a blind spot, such as in a driveway, is particularly dangerous, as drivers might not notice someone in their path.
Intersection Accidents
Many traffic accidents occur at intersections due to right-of-way and traffic violations. UPS truck drivers can significantly increase the risk when they run a red light or fail to yield. They could also cause an accident if they brake too late, as the truck’s size makes it challenging to stop quickly. These can also occur if the driver is distracted, fatigued, or in a hurry.
Unfortunately, if such large vehicles are involved in intersection accidents, devastating consequences are bound to follow. If you or someone you care about has been injured, talk to our UPS truck accident lawyers. We will help you pursue monetary reparation for your losses, including medical expenses and vehicle damage.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions occur when a vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle. These are relatively common with UPS trucks, as their larger size and weight require a longer stopping distance compared to smaller vehicles. If they are following another vehicle too closely, they might not be able to stop in time in sudden situations. Furthermore, brake failures can aggravate these risks, making it even more difficult for drivers to avoid collisions.
These accidents can be extremely dangerous due to the impact of a large truck on a smaller vehicle. The occupants could sustain serious injuries that could prevent them from living normal lives. In these cases, consult the best UPS truck accident lawyers. You’ll need our expertise when calculating the compensation you need to recover as fully as possible.
Lane Change Accidents
UPS truck drivers are often under significant pressure to meet tight delivery schedules. This urgency might lead them to zip through traffic and change lanes recklessly. Some drivers might neglect to properly check their blind spots or signal their intentions when they are rushing, increasing the chance of colliding with another vehicle. Unfortunately, even a slight misjudgment can have severe consequences when UPS trucks are involved.
Pedestrian And Bicycle Accidents
The potential for accidents is alarmingly high in residential and urban areas where UPS trucks frequently share the road with pedestrians and bicyclists. Quick stops and sharp turns can catch nearby road users off guard. The size and elevation of these trucks also make it challenging for drivers to see people walking or biking nearby. As a result, a UPS truck accident can happen in a matter of seconds. For example, if a driver backs out of a driveway without a clear line of sight, they may fail to see a pedestrian or bicyclist and cause a tragic accident.
Factors Leading To Accidents Involving UPS Trucks
Driver Errors
Similar to car accidents, UPS truck collisions occur most commonly due to human error. According to the Safety Measurement System, there are at least 128,000 active UPS drivers in the USA. These drivers undergo rigorous training to become certified and authorized to operate a UPS delivery vehicle. While most of the company’s truckers drive defensively, some are negligent and cause accidents that result in injuries.
Many delivery drivers exhibit risky driving behaviors due to stressors related to their jobs. Whether it’s physical fatigue caused by handling heavy packages all day or mental exhaustion caused by strict deadlines, both situations could lead a driver to drive negligently, resulting in accidents. Risky driving behaviors commonly observed among delivery truck drivers include:
- Overconfidence — Drivers who work for UPS come out of training with the knowledge they need before operating a delivery van. Sadly, some drivers overestimate their abilities and commit errors while driving.
- Tailgating — Drivers tailgate for various reasons, including “beating the traffic,” road rage, distraction, force of habit, and others. However, driving too closely to another vehicle is never a good idea. Larger vehicles like UPS trucks need to have ample distance between other vehicles in front or behind them so their drivers can easily maneuver.
- Distracted Driving — UPS drivers are just as likely to be distracted while driving as regular drivers. They are also always on the lookout for landmarks while driving. To find the correct delivery address, the driver focuses on surrounding buildings instead of the road.
- Aggressive Driving — Being pressed to meet deadlines can sometimes result in rushed decisions or errors in judgment, which can lead to aggressive driving or road rage.
Violations Of Traffic Rules And Regulations
The traffic signs we see on the road and the regulations for truckers are not merely suggestions. Rules and laws are implemented to ensure the safety of everyone on the road at all times. However, some drivers think that they are above these rules and choose to ignore them instead by:
- Speeding — UPS drivers are usually assigned specific routes, which they become familiar with over time. This familiarity allows them to navigate the roads easily. However, the same familiarity can sometimes lead to a false sense of security. With the pressure of tight delivery schedules, some drivers might be tempted to exceed the speed limit, potentially increasing the risk of speeding accidents.
- Driving Under The Influence — Driving under the influence (DUI) is completely illegal, regardless of whether the impairment comes from alcohol or medication. Some UPS truck drivers don’t realize how prescription medications or a small swig of liquor during mealtimes might affect their driving abilities.
- Drowsy Driving — Falling asleep behind the wheel has been a persistent issue among overworked truck drivers. Research shows that fatigued driving leads to slowed reaction times, impaired judgment, coordination problems, and distorted vision — symptoms similar to driving under the influence. HOS regulations help prevent this risk, but many drivers violate them to meet tight schedules.
Possible Negligent Practices Of The Company
If UPS played a part in causing your injuries, our truck accident lawyers will not back down easily. We have extensive experience litigating cases against large corporations and possess the resources to pursue justice for our clients. Corporations like UPS frequently face high-profile lawsuits, and our legal team is well-equipped to handle them.
For instance, one of our esteemed attorneys, Brian Beecher, Esq., helped secure over $41 million for clients who were assaulted with a baseball bat at a local Walmart. Our premises liability lawyers demonstrated that the store was partly responsible for the attack due to their failure to secure the bats. Similarly, we are prepared to hold UPS accountable for any negligence that contributed to your injuries. Our attorneys will bring the same level of dedication and relentlessness to our case against UPS.
Poor Hiring And Retention Practices
The company’s policies might also be a factor in UPS truck collisions. UPS employs most of its delivery truck drivers directly, unlike FedEx, which relies primarily on independent contractors. Hence, the shipping company has greater control and bigger responsibility over its drivers’ actions.
UPS is known for having a high turnover rate, potentially due to poor hiring and retention practices. This can lead to a workforce not adequately prepared or motivated to operate safely. If it’s found that UPS’s neglect of safety regulations or its employees’ well-being contributed to the accident, the company could be held accountable.
Unresolved Mechanical Problems In The Truck
UPS is in charge of regularly maintaining and inspecting its delivery trucks before they go on the road. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of its drivers and other road users, helping identify potential problems. Neglecting this duty could lead to an accident for which they will be responsible.
Nature Of UPS Trucks
UPS’s big brown delivery trucks are much bulkier and heavier than any other passenger car. Due to the additional weight of the cargo they transport, these commercial trucks will need a longer braking time and will be harder to maneuver than, say, a smaller SUV. They also have larger blind spots, which can pose an accident risk if the driver fails to pay attention to what’s around them.
Common Types Of Injuries In UPS Truck Accidents
Truck accidents involving large commercial vehicles, such as the ones operated by UPS, often result in a range of injuries. Some of these include:
- Minor lacerations (cuts and bruises)
- Minor burns (first and second-degree burns)
- Sprains and strains
- Soft tissue injuries (e.g., torn ligaments, muscle strains)
- Whiplash
- Eye injuries (minor, such as corneal abrasions)
- Psychological trauma (e.g., anxiety, emotional distress)
- Back injuries (including vertebral fractures)
- Face and neck injuries (including fractures and disfigurement)
- Broken bones (e.g., fractures in limbs, collarbones)
- Herniated discs
- Nerve damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Infections (from open wounds or surgical sites)
- Eye injuries (from debris or impact)
- Chest injuries (e.g., broken ribs, punctured lungs)
- Pelvic injuries
- Head trauma (including skull fractures)
- Severe lacerations (with risk of blood loss or infection)
- Burns (especially third-degree burns)
- Crush injuries (from being trapped or pinned)
- Amputations (loss of limbs)
- Internal injuries (e.g., organ damage, internal bleeding)
- Spinal cord injuries (including paralysis)
- Traumatic brain injuries
It may take hours or even days for an injured victim to realize the extent of their injuries. Adrenaline and shock can numb pain, resulting in a delayed onset of symptoms. Untreated injuries are likely to worsen and become more challenging to treat. Therefore, it is crucial for victims to seek immediate medical attention following a collision with a truck.
Additionally, delaying medical care can make it harder to prove that injuries are directly related to the accident. It is common for insurance companies to argue that victims were injured in unrelated events rather than during the collision. However, when you hire our UPS truck accident lawyers, we’ll see to it that the other party can’t use these dirty tactics to harm your case. We can connect you with the best doctors to fully assess your injuries and give you proper treatment.
Regulations For UPS Trucks In California
The FMCSA and the Department of Transportation (DOT) impose safety regulations that shipping companies should follow. Commercial trucks, including those owned and operated by UPS, are subject to these regulations, which cover:
- Truck Maintenance Requirements — The FMCSA mandates that truck operators regularly inspect, maintain, and repair their fleet. UPS drivers must ensure their trucks’ parts are in working order before hitting the road.
- Cargo Requirements — The FMCSA enforces rules on axle load, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and overall truck dimensions to prevent overloading, which can cause accidents and road damage.
- Driver Hiring And Training Requirements — Shipping companies, like UPS, have to adhere to these requirements from the DOT and FMCSA:
- Drivers must be 21 or older.
- Drivers must pass a driver’s road test or equivalent.
- Drivers must be able to speak and read English satisfactorily to:
- Communicate with the general public,
- Identify and understand traffic signs and signals,
- Answer questions from officials,
- Ensure that reports and records are legible.
- The driver must operate the vehicle safely and be physically fit to do all the driving-related duties.
- Drivers must have only one valid commercial motor vehicle operator’s license issued by one state or jurisdiction.
- Drivers should not be disqualified from driving under 49 CFR 391.15.
- Hours Of Service Requirements — Truck drivers must strictly adhere to regulations surrounding on-duty and off-duty hours. In general, they are only allowed to drive for a maximum of 11 hours within a 14-hour period.
- Drug And Alcohol Testing — Driving under the influence is prohibited for any driver. UPS drivers and other truckers must follow much stricter guidelines and undergo routine drug and alcohol tests.
These rules and regulations helped improve traffic safety and saved the lives of millions of people from potential accidents. However, that does not eliminate the fact that accidents can still happen, especially when drivers and trucking companies blatantly neglect to follow the guidelines.
The purpose of complying with truck regulations is not just to follow the law. It is also to ensure the safety of drivers and other road users. If you or someone you love sustained injuries in a UPS truck accident, our lawyers will make sure that the negligent driver or company will be held accountable for their actions.
Determining The Responsible Party For A UPS Truck Accident
Delivery truck accidents, especially those involving major companies like UPS, often result in catastrophic consequences. In these situations, victims would want to know who is responsible for their pain and suffering. Unfortunately, truck accidents are inherently more complex than other road collisions, and determining liability is one reason.
When you sign with us, our UPS truck accident attorneys will investigate your accident and assess if any of the following parties are potentially liable for your injuries and other losses:
The UPS Truck Driver
Regardless of a UPS driver’s tenure or employment type, they may be liable for accidents if they are found to have been:
- Speeding
- Driving while distracted
- Operating without proper credentials (Truck drivers are required to have a specific amount of training and experience before they can legally operate a large truck.)
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Ignoring traffic rules
The Company: United Parcel Service, Inc.
UPS can be held liable for accidents if it fails to inspect and repair its trucks since regular maintenance is required by law. Unlike most delivery companies, UPS hires its own drivers. The vicarious liability theory can be used to prove liability as well. This theory holds that when an employee acts within the scope of their employment, an employer is liable for the employee’s negligent actions.
In order to establish vicarious liability, you need to prove the following:
- UPS failed to perform a proper background and criminal record check before hiring a driver.
- UPS can also be liable for negligent training if it fails to fill gaps in a driver’s skills to operate one of its trucks. This includes drivers who have handled other delivery trucks but were not trained to handle UPS trucks properly.
- UPS failed to monitor its employees and take appropriate action if any of them got a DUI, speeding ticket, or other moving violation on or off the job.
Our UPS truck accident attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of vicarious liability and build a strong case to hold the company accountable.
Third Parties
- A truck parts manufacturer may be held responsible if they sell defective products that contribute to an accident.
- An automotive service or repair shop could be liable if it fails to meet industry standards in maintaining or repairing a UPS truck.
- A highway agency, construction company, or a government entity could be at fault if it fails in its duty to keep roads reasonably safe.
- Freight loaders may be held responsible if they fail to secure or load cargo according to industry standards.
Proving Negligence In A UPS Truck Accident Case
When dealing with accidents involving major delivery companies like UPS, proving negligence is key to building a strong case that can help you receive compensation for your damages, but it can be challenging. Establishing negligence requires demonstrating that the truck driver owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and directly caused the accident, which resulted in damages.
Due to the numerous federal regulations governing commercial vehicles, building a case against UPS is more challenging than building a case against a typical car accident. However, if a truck driver violates these regulations, it can serve as crucial evidence of their negligence. You must prove your case with evidence such as:
- Details About The Driver And The Truck — Get the driver’s name, license plate number, driver’s license details, and information about the truck’s insurance.
- Police Report — If you plan to file a claim against UPS, this report is essential proof that you took the right legal action.
- Witness Accounts — The testimony of eyewitnesses can greatly support your claim. Your UPS truck accident lawyer can interview witnesses to confirm their accounts of the accident.
- Photos And Videos Of The Accident Scene — Images captured from the site provide hard proof of your injuries and the degree of harm done to your car or property. These can even solidify the negligence of the other party.
Other evidence might be necessary to strengthen your claim further. Given the complexity of federal trucking regulations and the resources available to a large company like UPS, it is crucial to seek the counsel of a personal injury lawyer with specific experience in handling UPS truck accidents. When you entrust your case with us, we can help you gather all the crucial evidence to support your side of the story.
What Compensation Can I Recover After A UPS Truck Accident?
Damages or losses after an accident come in many forms. Compensatory damages aim to pay the victim for their injuries and suffering. On the other hand, the purpose of punitive damages is to deter future accidents similar to the one involved. Punitive damages, however, are rarely awarded.
Injured victims can file a personal injury claim after a UPS truck accident to recover the following:
Medical Bills
Hospital fees, doctor’s fees, the costs of medication, treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and other medical-related expenses fall under compensatory damages, specifically within economic (actual) damages. Our UPS truck accident attorneys will document all these losses while you focus on your recovery.
Income Loss
Victims may also be entitled to compensation if they sustain injuries that prevent them from working. When the accident leaves them with a temporary or permanent disability, they may be able to recover lost wages and reduced earning capacity. This can be substantiated with previous paychecks or any documentation showing the potential earning capacity of the victim.
Property Damage
Victims can also file for property damage if the accident directly destroyed their belongings. Our UPS truck accident attorneys will do their best to make the at-fault party pay for the repairs or replacement of your car and other valuable items that were damaged in the accident.
Pain And Suffering
We know the emotional toll and distress an accident can have on its victims. Our UPS truck accident lawyers do not leave out emotional and mental suffering when calculating your damages.
Wrongful Death
If you lost a loved one in a UPS truck accident, we extend our deepest condolences and sympathy. We offer full legal support to family members who lost a loved one in an accident. Our UPS truck accident lawyers can help you recover a wide range of financial and emotional burdens. We’ll help you file a wrongful death claim, which covers medical and rehabilitation expenses incurred when the victim was still alive, funeral and burial costs, loss of expected household income and benefits, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, loss of consortium, and other related damages.
What To Do If A UPS Truck Hits You
It is important to follow these steps after being involved in an accident involving a UPS truck:
Stay Calm
UPS truck accidents can immediately cause a great deal of emotional distress to those involved. However, you must do your best to remain calm and think objectively right after a collision. Instead of panicking, turn your focus to checking yourself for injuries. If it is safe to do so, move to the side of the road away from oncoming traffic.
Call 911
Accidents with delivery trucks often constitute an emergency, so after checking if you’re okay, immediately call 911 for help. Explain the situation to the dispatcher and provide them with any necessary information. Stay at the scene until help arrives.
Cooperate With The Authorities
Once the paramedics arrive, have them assess and provide preliminary treatment for your injuries. Even if you feel “okay,” make sure you get medical help at the scene of the accident. Furthermore, cooperate with the police during the initial questioning.
Document The Scene
Exchange driver’s license and insurance details with the other party. If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information from them as well. Photograph your car and any other vehicles involved in the accident, your injuries, and any other significant details around the area that might be useful for a potential claim.
Reach Out To Your Insurance Company
After an accident, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the information you have gathered, and be honest about what happened. Do not admit fault.
Get Medical Attention
Regardless of the injury you sustained after a UPS truck accident, you need to get to a hospital and get an assessment from a qualified doctor. Ensure that you keep all records related to your medical bills.
Consult UPS Truck Accident Lawyers
A California UPS truck accident lawyer can assist you with navigating the legal process and initiating your personal injury claim. In addition to advising you on your legal rights, they can also assist you with obtaining compensation for your injuries and damage to your property. Give us a call at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation.
When Should I Hire An Expert Attorney For My UPS Truck Accident?
After an accident, you might wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer is absolutely! You need to get a lawyer as soon as possible. Attempting to handle a personal injury claim against a large company like UPS on your own can be overwhelming and risky. You should always work with an experienced personal injury lawyer, regardless of how straightforward you believe your case may be. Our UPS truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay anything unless they successfully secure compensation for you.
If you’re stuck in a legal crisis after an accident with a UPS truck, it’s essential to consult with an attorney before making any decisions. They will review your claim, explain your legal rights, and answer your questions, providing valuable information to help you decide how to proceed. From start to finish, they will only advocate for your best interests.
Remember, there’s a sense of urgency when it comes to filing a claim. You may lose evidence and miss filing deadlines if you wait too long. You will have the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve if you consult with a lawyer promptly.
Things To Consider When Hiring An Attorney
If you are looking for an experienced UPS truck accident lawyer for your case, consider these factors:
Specialized Experience
You should hire an attorney who has litigated a variety of trucking cases. Having a trial-ready UPS truck accident lawyer who can build your case from the ground up and fight for your rights in court is the best way to ensure justice and maximum compensation.
Reputation For Winning
It’s important to consider whether the attorney has a proven track record of success in truck accident cases and if the law firm has an established reputation for securing significant recoveries against major corporations. This is a strong indicator that the law firm has the expertise and resources necessary to win cases when the stakes are high.
Accessible Services
Finding out the cost of legal representation in a UPS truck accident case is probably one of the first questions a victim will have. At Arash Law, our fees are structured on a contingency fee basis, meaning that your lawyers only get paid if they win your case in court or through a settlement. So you know what to expect, ask our truck accident lawyers about their fees before deciding to hire them.
Genuine Care
Our UPS truck accident attorneys do whatever it takes to make sure our clients get the help they need. Each injured victim we help becomes a part of our growing family, and as part of our family, you will receive nothing less than dedication and advocacy that goes beyond the courtroom.
Honest Communication
Trust is built through honest, compassionate communication, ensuring your needs are fully understood and met throughout the legal process. Those injured in truck accidents have faced many challenges and deserve genuine care. When you meet with an attorney for the first time, it’s important to assess not just their expertise but also how well they communicate with you. During these early stages, an attorney’s interactions with you are a good indication of how they will handle your case.
Statute Of Limitations For UPS Truck Accident Claims
The statute of limitations is a legal deadline that establishes the maximum period of time that victims are allowed to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. In California, personal injury claims, including those resulting from UPS truck accidents, normally have a two-year deadline. You can lose your right to seek reimbursement for injuries, medical costs, lost income, and other losses if you fail to submit your claim within the two-year time frame. Your prospects of getting the compensation you are entitled to are better the sooner you act.
For this reason, following your injury, you must take prompt action and speak with a good UPS truck accident attorney as soon as you can. Your lawyer can begin putting up a compelling case for you, settling disputes with insurance providers, and getting ready to go to court if needed. If you wish to get started today, call us at (888) 488-1391.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does UPS Have Insurance For Accidents?
UPS’s general liability insurance would cover claims related to bodily injury, property damage, and potentially personal injury resulting from the accident. For example, a UPS truck collides with another vehicle, leading to injuries or damage to the other vehicle’s occupants. The company’s general liability insurance would help cover medical expenses, repair costs, and any legal fees or settlements up to $1,000,000.
Who Pays For My Injuries In A UPS Truck Accident?
California is a “fault-based state,” which implies that the person who caused the accident is liable for the damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses associated with the accident.
To set up your case for success, you and your UPS truck accident attorney must determine who caused the collision and establish their liability. Once this step is done, you can pursue compensation through a personal injury claim against the responsible party’s insurance. If the UPS driver is found at fault, either the driver’s insurance or UPS’s insurance may cover your injuries.
Does UPS Contract Independent Drivers?
Most of the time, big courier companies hire smaller companies to do their transport work. In the event of an accident, the courier company may shift blame to the smaller trucking company they hired. Likewise, if an independent contractor is in an accident, a courier business may claim that the driver is not an employee.
UPS, however, hires its truck drivers directly rather than contracting them. As their direct employer, UPS bears responsibility for the actions of these drivers. However, the company is only responsible for what the workers do as part of their job, which means doing what they are supposed to do during their set hours.
The trucking company might try to dodge responsibility by claiming the driver wasn’t working for them at the time of the accident. When these situations arise, you’ll need the help of experienced UPS truck accident lawyers to support your claim.
Can I Sue UPS For A Truck Accident Caused By One Of Its Drivers?
It depends on the situation. In general, the commercial trucking industry involves a complex system where one person owns the truck and another individual drives it, or the truck is leased to another company. However, UPS owns its trucks and employs its own drivers. Even so, the company is not always liable for an accident caused by its employees.
Here are a couple of scenarios to consider:
UPS Might Be Responsible
Vicarious liability holds employers responsible for the negligence of their employees if the employees were acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident. For instance, UPS may be held liable if a UPS driver hits and injures someone while delivering packages. Additionally, you and your UPS truck accident attorney could hold the company accountable if it failed to properly train its employees or was negligent in its hiring practices.
The Driver Might Be Solely Liable
A driver’s actions can significantly impact liability in a UPS truck accident. If the driver was at fault for failing to yield to a pedestrian, they could be solely liable. This situation is different from collisions caused by factors like mechanical issues with the truck. Another example is if a truck driver working for UPS causes an accident after their shift due to a DUI. In this case, the driver could be held solely responsible for the accident.
What If UPS Denies Your Claim?
If UPS denies your claim after an accident, it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. It’s best to hire our UPS truck accident lawyers to guide you through the next steps. Here’s how the process usually goes:
- Review the reasons for the denial.
- Gather additional documentation and evidence to strengthen your claim.
- File an appeal and submit new evidence.
If push comes to shove, our litigation attorneys will file a lawsuit. We will handle the whole process, from submitting the necessary paperwork to presenting a compelling case before the judge and jury. Our UPS truck accident attorneys will relentlessly advocate for your rights, aiming to secure a favorable verdict.
What Happens If I Am Partially At Fault In A UPS Accident?
You can still file a claim for compensation even if you’re partly to blame for a UPS truck accident. California follows pure comparative negligence laws, which allow all victims to seek reparation even if they share up to 99% liability. These rules also determine how fault is assigned to all parties involved.
For example, you are found to be 24% responsible for the crash, while the UPS truck driver is 76% to blame. In this scenario, your compensation will be reduced by 24%. If your total damages amount to $120,000, you would receive $91,200.
This system ensures all involved parties are held accountable for their respective contributions to the accident. The challenging part is proving that your share of fault is lower than other parties might claim. UPS and insurance companies will try to lower their liability as much as possible to reduce their payout.
Work with our UPS truck accident lawyers to increase your chances of getting higher compensation. We will meticulously gather all relevant information and evidence to build a strong case, demonstrating the other parties’ liability.
How Much Is My UPS Truck Accident Settlement Worth?
The value of each UPS truck accident case varies widely. Some minor accidents might result in a smaller settlement of $20,000, while extreme cases could settle for more than $1 million.
If you’re injured in a UPS truck accident, we can assist you in obtaining maximum compensation. When you hire our lawyers, we gather and analyze evidence to determine the value of your claim.
What Factors Can Affect A UPS Truck Accident Settlement Amount?
Your compensation from a UPS truck accident depends on specific factors, such as the nature and severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, and the impact on your quality of life. It should also include any future losses.
For example, if the accident results in a disability, it can significantly change your life for the worse in many ways. You might be unable to perform specific tasks, engage in your previous hobbies, or return to work. In this case, aside from covering the costs of treatments, rehabilitation, and medications for the disability, the settlement amount could also include:
- The costs of hiring a nurse or caretaker
- Diminished potential earnings
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Your case has to prove these losses so you can get fair restitution. Talk to our lawyers who specialize in UPS truck accident cases. We will gather evidence and work with experts to ensure the settlement adequately reflects your current and future needs. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping you recover as fully as possible from the impact of the UPS truck accident.
How Long Does A UPS Accident Claim Take To Resolve?
Without knowing the specifics, no one can accurately estimate how long it takes to settle a UPS accident claim. While some claims may be settled within a few months, others can take much longer, especially if complications arise.
One common reason for delays is that insurance companies often attempt to prolong the process, hoping the claimant will become frustrated and settle for less than they deserve. The length of negotiations is another critical factor. If UPS or their insurers are uncooperative, multiple rounds of discussions may be necessary to reach a fair settlement.
Additionally, your decisions play a significant role in the timeline. You have the option to accept a settlement offer or reject it and continue negotiating. If you choose to take the case to court, the process will likely extend even further, as litigation can be time-consuming.
Nevertheless, our UPS truck accident attorneys will do what it takes to obtain a favorable outcome as efficiently as possible. We will provide guidance to help you make informed decisions that align with your best interests. If litigation becomes necessary, we will be fully prepared to pursue it to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Seek Legal Advice From Our UPS Truck Accident Lawyers Today!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a UPS truck accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Our UPS truck accident lawyers have the experience and expertise you need to build a strong case. Considered to be one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, Arash Law is renowned for its client-focused approach. Our personal injury attorneys have successfully represented numerous truck accident victims in their decades of service. We have secured over $500 Million in settlements and verdicts for our clients, and our proven track record in all types of personal injury cases speaks for itself. Our UPS truck accident attorneys are committed to providing legal support to anyone who has been harmed due to another’s negligence.
Arash Law proudly serves clients throughout California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, Long Beach, Oakland, Bakersfield, and Anaheim. We also serve Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Clara, Alameda, Contra Costa, Fresno, and other counties. We also offer free initial consultations. Call us today at (888) 488-1391, and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.
