What Happens If an Amazon Truck Hits My Car?
Amazon has changed the game for retail shopping and e-commerce. The company delivers approximately 1.6 million packages each day and has the world’s largest delivery infrastructure. Whether or not you are one of the 100 million active monthly users on the website or app, you have likely seen Amazon trucks on the road. If you were unlucky enough to be involved in an Amazon delivery truck accident, you may be wondering how to get the compensation you deserve.
Like other commercial vehicle accidents, a car accident with an Amazon truck can be complicated. It is important to understand your legal rights and the steps to take in order to ensure you receive a fair settlement. Contact us today!
An Amazon Truck Hit My Car—What Do I Do?
If you are in an Amazon truck delivery crash, your immediate next steps will depend on the nature of your injuries. There are some things you can do to set yourself up for a successful claim, but the most important thing is that you are safe and receive any necessary medical attention. If you need to leave the scene to receive emergency care, do not hesitate to do so.
Contact Law Enforcement
Regardless of whether it was a catastrophic collision or a fender bender, it is important to have a police report detailing the circumstances of your accident. The insurance company may require this report, which should include who was involved, statements from drivers and witnesses, and what the officer believes occurred.
Take Photos
Most people have a smartphone with photo capabilities. Photos taken of the scene can be used as evidence in settlement negotiations and at trial. Make sure to get close-ups of damage to the vehicles, but also get zoomed-out images of the entire scene depicting how the vehicles are situated and the roadway.
Exchange Driver Information
Before leaving the scene of the Amazon delivery truck accident, you should exchange contact information with the driver, including their name, phone number, email address, license plate number, and insurance carrier information. You may also ask whether they were on duty when the accident occurred.
Seek Medical Attention
Regardless of whether you think you are hurt, it is important to seek medical attention reasonably soon. Some injuries may not surface for days, weeks, or months, but a physician may be able to tell you what to expect. If you are experiencing significant pain, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Contact a Lawyer
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine the strength of your claim and the value of your settlement. They can also negotiate on your behalf to ensure you do not accept an unfair amount of compensation. Reach out to a Texas truck accident attorney about your claim.
Who Is Liable If an Amazon Truck Hit My Car?
The circumstances surrounding your Amazon delivery truck accident will determine whether you are able to file a claim directly against Amazon. Similar to rideshare drivers, Amazon often relies on independent contractors rather than company employees to make deliveries. The employment status of the negligent driver will determine who you make your claim against.
Amazon has multiple types of vehicles on the road including:
- Amazon Prime semi-trucks;
- Delivery sprinter vans; and
- Passenger vehicles driven by contractors.
In many cases, the damages from your Amazon delivery truck crash will be covered by Amazon’s commercial insurance policy as long as the driver was on duty at the time the collision occurred. In other instances, Amazon may try to avoid liability and place the responsibility on the driver’s insurance. These cases can be complex.
Not all accidents are caused by driver error. If there was a mechanical failure that led to the accident or some other issue such as poorly maintained roadways, there may be another party who is also responsible for your accident. It is important that your personal injury attorney conduct a detailed investigation to discover the cause of your accident and whom you should file your claim against.
What Is The Average Settlement Amount If an Amazon Truck Hit My Car?
The amount of compensation you are entitled to will depend largely on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of your accident. In most cases, you will be eligible to recover all the medical expenses associated with your injuries and lost wages, as well as compensation for physical, mental, and emotional hardships.
Contact The Hartley Law Firm
The experienced team at the Hartley Law Firm has secured large settlements and verdicts for personal injury victims across Texas. We understand the legal landscape and the nuances of cases involving an Amazon delivery truck crash. You do not want to take on a big company like Amazon alone. We are here to help.
If an Amazon truck hit your car, we are prepared to walk through the circumstances of your accident and build a legal strategy that fits your unique circumstances. Contact us to schedule your free case consultation.
