Free Case Evaluation
Amazon Truck & Van Accident Lawyers in Oklahoma City
By offering everything from everyday essentials to last-minute gifts, Amazon has become a household name. The recent explosive growth of online shopping means that more Amazon delivery trucks and vans are on the road, causing an increase in collisions involving these vehicles. If you or a loved one were injured in an accident with an Amazon truck or van in Oklahoma City, we’re here to help you understand your legal options.
What is causing Amazon truck and van accidents to increase?
A study by The Information reveals that Amazon trucks and vans were involved in more than 50 serious crashes within a three-year period. The company’s promise of fast and efficient delivery puts a lot of pressure on its drivers. Amazon drivers are often working to meet tight deadlines while making their way through busy streets and neighborhoods. This can lead to issues like the following:
- Drivers may break the speed limit or make unsafe driving maneuvers in order to meet delivery quotas.
- Drowsy driving is also a risk, as long hours behind the wheel without proper breaks can lead to fatigue, which is a major contributor to accidents.
- Drivers can become distracted by navigation apps or handheld devices, often used to plan their routes and communicate with dispatchers.
- Because many Amazon delivery drivers are hired as independent contractors, they may not have the necessary experience to handle a large vehicle safely.
Free Case Evaluation
What are some common types of Amazon truck and van accidents?
Delivery vehicles are always stopping, turning, and entering residential zones leading to various types of truck accidents. Frequent stops can catch other drivers off-guard, resulting in rear-end collisions. In tight spaces, Amazon trucks and vans may inadvertently collide with other vehicles. Deliveries often happen in neighborhoods with high foot traffic, increasing the risk of a driver hitting a pedestrian. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable when Amazon drivers fail to check their blind spots or open their doors without looking.
Who is responsible for an Oklahoma City Amazon delivery accident?
It can be complicated to determine liability in an Amazon truck or van accident. This is because Amazon often contracts its delivery services to third-party companies or hires drivers as independent contractors. This arrangement, in many cases, allows Amazon to distance itself from direct liability. However, that doesn’t mean you have no recourse if you’re injured in an accident. Depending on the circumstances of the incident, multiple parties may be held responsible:
- If the driver acted negligently, like speeding or texting while driving, they could be held personally responsible for the accident.
- If the driver was employed by a third-party company, the company might be liable for failing to properly train or supervise the driver.
- Although Amazon tries to shield itself from liability, the company may still be held accountable if it can be proven that its policies or practices contributed to unsafe driving conditions, or if the drivers were actually serving as employees rather than contractors.
- If a mechanical failure caused the accident, the manufacturer of the truck or van could also share liability.
What are common injuries in Amazon delivery accidents?
Amazon trucks and vans are large, which means that accidents can result in severe injuries to everyone involved. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries, often caused by rear-end collisions.
- The impact of a crash can lead to fractures in the arms, legs, and ribs.
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can happen in high-speed accidents.
- Spinal cord injuries, resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
- Sprains, strains, and muscle tears are also common after a collision.
Further, the emotional impact of an accident can lead to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What should I do after an Oklahoma City Amazon truck or van accident?
If you’re in an accident with an Amazon delivery van or truck, take the following steps to protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911 to make sure the police and emergency services are notified immediately.
- Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get yourself checked out by a doctor. Certain injuries, like internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away.
- Take photos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Get the driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details, as well as any information about the delivery company.
- If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information and statements about what they saw.
- Before giving a statement to the insurance company, consult with an Oklahoma City Amazon truck and van accident attorney, who can better guide you through the claims process.
The experienced truck accident attorneys at Cunningham & Mears are here to help you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.
What is the value of my Oklahoma City Amazon truck and van accident?
If you or a loved one were injured in an Amazon delivery accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses (compensation to cover your hospital bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment)
- Lost wages (reimbursement for income lost due to your injuries, including reduced earning capacity)
- Pain and suffering (compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident)
- Property damage (the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle)
- Punitive damages (awarded in some cases to punish the responsible party)
How can your Oklahoma personal injury attorneys help?
It can be challenging to file a claim after an Amazon truck or van accident, especially when you have to deal with large corporations and their insurance companies. Our experienced Oklahoma City personal injury attorneys can:
- Investigate the accident by collecting evidence from things like traffic camera footage, driver logs, and witness statements.
- Determine who is responsible for your injuries and build a strong case against them.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement.
- Take your case to trial to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Were you or a loved one injured in an accident involving an Amazon van or truck in Oklahoma City? Don’t wait to get the legal help you need. At Cunningham & Mears, our skilled truck accident attorneys will review your case, explain your options, and fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. To take the first step, please call our office or use our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Related Articles
