Important Steps to Take After a Car Accident with a Delivery Driver
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Any car crash can be a traumatic experience and result in significant burdens, financial and otherwise. From medical expenses to vehicle repairs, traffic collisions involve many moving parts. There are a few crucial steps you’ll need to take if you want to file a personal injury claim.
Liability in Delivery Driver Accidents
When a delivery driver hits another driver or a pedestrian who then decides to pursue a personal injury claim, the issue of liability is crucial for deciding the outcome.
California, for example, is an at-fault state, and courts use comparative fault to determine liability. In other words, a judge will use the available evidence to assign each party a portion of the responsibility for the accident. In some cases, one party will be found 100% responsible for the crash, while in others, multiple drivers may share responsibility.
Since many delivery drivers work under strict time constraints, their behavior on the road can often result in negligence and lead to accidents. If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a delivery driver who was on the job, you may be eligible for compensation.
The Best Course of Action After a Crash
Anytime you’re involved in an automobile accident, you should take the following precautions:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, you should always go to the hospital to rule out the possibility of unseen injuries.
The shock of a car crash can suppress or delay the symptoms of physical injury, but they can usually be uncovered with a thorough examination. Your medical records will also be essential evidence should you choose to file a personal injury claim. As such, establishing and saving your medical records as early as possible can help your claim prevail in court.
Call the Police
You may not always think it is necessary to call the police after a car crash. Still, it’s imperative that you contact law enforcement, especially in situations where you suspect that negligence might have played a role.
Depending on the vehicles they use, delivery drivers may be bound by special traffic laws regulating weight, speed, and other factors. A police report can help determine whether a driver’s behavior was unlawful, which can later support your claim in court.
Collect Valuable Evidence
If possible, you should always document the scene of the accident immediately to secure evidence that might benefit your claim later on. Such evidence can include:
- Photos of both vehicles and the surrounding area
- Witness testimony and contact information
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
- Bystander recordings that captured the event
Every crash presents a unique set of circumstances, so gathering as much evidence as you can will help your attorney build a strong case in your favor.
Get the Delivery Driver’s Information
As with any other car crash, you’ll want to exchange information with the other driver. You’ll want to obtain a few key facts specific to the driver, including:
- The company they work for
- Their specific role or position
- The insurance company that covers their vehicle
- Whether their vehicle has monitoring or surveillance technology
Many delivery companies in California have special insurance coverage for their drivers, and the provisions of these plans can help ensure you’re compensated fairly for any injuries or inconvenience you suffer.
Delivery Driver Accidents in Los Angeles, CA
As more and more Californians come to rely on delivery services for items ordered online, the number of accidents caused by rushed delivery drivers is sure to increase.
If you’ve been in an accident involving a delivery driver, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help hold them or the company they work for accountable. Saeedian Law Group proudly represents individuals seeking compensation for car crash injuries throughout the Los Angeles area. Reach out to our team today.