More Deliveries Mean More Delivery Truck Accidents

A line of delivery trucks. | Patrick Daniel Law
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In an era where on-demand delivery services are skyrocketing, so is the frequency of delivery truck accidents. While often preventable, these incidents pose significant threats to other drivers on our roads, particularly in bustling urban centers like Houston.

From distracted driving to increasing delivery demands, understanding the dynamics behind these accidents is important. The causes, commonality, and unique legal considerations of delivery truck accidents underscore the importance of seeking skilled legal counsel from a Houston truck accident attorney in the aftermath.

Call Patrick Daniel Law at (713) 999-6666 today to schedule a FREE case evaluation. Allow our Strategic. Meticulous. Merciless. approach to assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve when you need it most.

What Causes Delivery Truck Accidents?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in its 2018 Traffic Safety Facts Crash Stats, notes that a critical reason was assigned to the drivers of vehicles in an estimated 2,046,000 vehicle crashes between 2005 and 2007. That accounts for 94% of the crashes nationwide in that period. Though this statistic encompasses all drivers, not just those of large trucks, it is evident that driver error vastly surpasses truck-related or environmental factors in vehicular accidents.

Delivery truck accidents are influenced by various factors, with driver-related reasons clearly a significant contributor. According to a 2021 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) report, “at least one driver-related factor was recorded for 32 percent of the large truck drivers in fatal crashes.” This contrasts with “54 percent of the passenger vehicle drivers” in similar incidents. The most common driver-related factor for both groups was “Speeding of Any Kind.”

For large truck drivers, including those operating delivery trucks, the second most prevalent factor was “Distraction/Inattention,” which encompasses cell phone use, being lost in thought, eating, and other similar distractions. This is particularly concerning given the high demands and multitasking nature of delivery work, with drivers often juggling navigation devices and tight schedules.

These insights reveal that while delivery truck drivers are less likely than passenger vehicle drivers to have a fatal crash due to driver-related factors, the risks remain significant, especially from speeding and distraction.

Other key causes of crashes involving delivery trucks include:

  • Failure to engage the parking brake
  • Sudden stops & turns
  • Inadequate surveillance when backing up
  • Lack of training
  • Unfamiliar with the road layout
  • Driver fatigue
  • Pressure to stay on schedule
  • External distractions
  • Aggressive driving
  • Brake failure
  • Improper loading of cargo
  • Weather
  • Over-the-counter or prescription drug use

Additionally, congested urban traffic, like that in Houston, exacerbates the risk of collisions. The growing number of delivery truck accidents legitimizes the importance of rigorous training and strict adherence to safety protocols among delivery truck drivers to mitigate these risks.

Read More: Sharing the Road with Trucks: How To Prevent Truck Accidents

Why Are Delivery Truck Accidents Increasing?

The rise in delivery truck accidents parallels the growth of the delivery industry over the last several years. More deliveries mean companies like FedEx and UPS put more trucks on the road with added pressure to keep up with the growing demand. Additionally, new trucks often mean new drivers and inexperienced drivers tend to get into more accidents. All of these factors contribute to the increasing likelihood of truck crashes.

The proliferation of delivery trucks on the roads, especially in urban areas like Houston, Texas, raises concerns about road safety and the need for stringent safety measures and responsible driving practices. This trend underscores the importance of understanding the risks and legal implications of delivery truck accidents. For those involved, seeking the counsel of an experienced delivery truck accident lawyer is essential in navigating the complexities of accident claims and securing fair compensation.

Why Has Distraction/Inattention Become Such a Major Issue?

Distracted driving has emerged as a leading cause of delivery truck accidents. The use of electronic devices for navigation or communication, coupled with the constant pressure of delivery deadlines, often diverts drivers’ attention from the road, leading to accidents.

Who Bears the Financial Responsibility for a Delivery Truck Driver’s Negligence?

In Texas, when a delivery truck driver’s negligence leads to an accident, the financial responsibility typically lies with the driver or their employer. Under Texas law, companies can be held liable for their employees’ actions during work hours due to a legal doctrine called respondeat superior or vicarious liability. Due to complexities in the law, consulting a delivery truck accident attorney is in your best interest should you be injured in a crash.

Read More: How Is Liability Determined in a Truck Accident?

How Is a Delivery Truck Accident Claim Different From a Car Accident Claim?

Delivery truck accident claims differ from typical car accident claims primarily due to the involvement of commercial entities. These cases often involve complex insurance policies and commercial vehicle regulations, which differ from those for private vehicles. The scale of damages and injuries can also be significantly higher in accidents involving delivery trucks.

Read More: How Are Truck Accidents Different from Car Accidents?

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer Today!

Victims often find themselves in a whirlwind of confusion in the aftermath of delivery truck accidents. They are trying to heal from their injuries and get back to work while medical bills are stacking up and insurance companies are chomping at the bit to get them to take a lowball offer. At this difficult time, the guidance of a truck accident attorney is invaluable.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a delivery truck accident, seeking the counsel of an experienced Houston truck accident lawyer is crucial. At Patrick Daniel Law, we have the skill and the courage to provide the relentless representation you need to pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a FREE case evaluation, and let us guide you through this challenging time.

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