Let’s say a truck hits your car while driving in Connecticut. What happens if the heavy-duty vehicle is a UPS, FedEx, or Amazon delivery truck? Who’s responsible for compensating you, what should you do to protect your rights, and when do you contact a truck accident lawyer? 

Who Is Responsible for a Delivery Truck Collision?

If you suffer a collision with a delivery truck, you may automatically assume that the commercial company, like UPS or FedEx, takes responsibility for the accident. However, this isn’t always so simple.

The liable parties may be:

• The commercial delivery company. If the driver was the company’s employee and was on duty when the accident happened, the company may be responsible for covering your damages.
• The trucker. If the truck driver was an independent contractor, your legal option might be to file a claim directly against the trucker and their insurance company. 
• A third party. For example, if the accident occurred because of a vehicle defect, you might sue the vehicle manufacturer or the contractor responsible for truck maintenance.

In some cases, even if the trucker is an independent contractor, the delivery company may be responsible for the collision if the company doesn’t vet or train the driver properly. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you identify the liable parties and any additional pathways for seeking compensation, like your UM/UIM coverage.

Available Compensation for Truck Accident Victims

As a truck accident survivor, you may expect your settlement to cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Damage to your vehicle
• Pain and suffering 

Additionally, a court may award punitive damages if the trucker’s behavior was especially reckless or negligent. 

Steps To Take After a Delivery Truck Accident in CT

A truck accident claims process can be complicated. The following steps will help protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable settlement.

1. Call the Police

Move to a safe location and call 911. If possible, wait at the accident scene and cooperate with the police. Be sure to ask for a copy of the police report, which will serve as key evidence in your claim.

2. Gather Evidence

Unless you need urgent medical treatment, stay on the scene to collect:

• The truck driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details
• The vehicle information and license plate number
• Photos of the accident scene, including any relevant details, like damage to your vehicle or skid marks
• The names and contact information of any witnesses on the scene

3. Seek Medical Treatment

Go in for a detailed check-up, even if you don’t believe you suffered a serious injury. Some life-threatening injuries can have almost no symptoms at first. Besides, you’ll need the medical reports as evidence later. 

4. Don’t Rush Into a Settlement

If the truck driver’s or delivery company’s insurer contacts you, refuse to give a recorded statement or discuss the accident beyond basic facts. Avoid accepting any settlements before you consult an attorney and have a realistic estimate of your case’s worth. 

5. Contact an Attorney

Consult a skilled, experienced car accident lawyer with a proven track record of handling cases involving commercial delivery companies. Your attorney will explain your legal options and tell you what compensation you may reasonably expect.

Law Offices of James A. Welcome: Connecticut Truck Accident Lawyers

At the Law Offices of James A. Welcome, we provide trusted legal advice for truck accidents. Our skilled personal injury attorneys will walk you through every step of your delivery truck collision claim. 

Call (475) 241-0824 or contact us online for a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in CT.