Commercial delivery vehicles from companies like FedEx, UPS, and Amazon fill the streets of Kingwood every day. While these services provide convenience, they also create risks. Delivery drivers often face tight schedules that can lead to speeding, distracted driving, and other dangerous behaviors. If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a commercial delivery vehicle, you may be entitled to sue the delivery company for your damages. The experienced Houston commercial vehicle accident attorneys at Hernandez Sunosky can evaluate your case and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
When Is a Delivery Company Liable for an Accident?
Delivery companies can be held liable for accidents caused by their drivers under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior. This principle holds employers responsible for the negligent actions of employees acting within the scope of their employment. If a delivery driver causes an accident while making deliveries, the company that employs them may be held accountable.
Liability can also arise from the company’s own negligence in hiring, training, or supervising drivers. A delivery company that fails to properly vet drivers, maintain vehicles, or enforce safety protocols may bear direct responsibility for accidents.
Challenges with Independent Contractor Drivers
Many delivery companies use independent contractors rather than employees to shield themselves from liability. When a driver is classified as an independent contractor, the company may argue that it is not responsible for the driver’s actions.
However, Texas courts look beyond labels to examine the actual relationship. If the company controls how, when, and where the driver performs their work, an employment relationship may exist regardless of the contractor designation. An experienced attorney can investigate these relationships and build a case for company liability.
Multiple Parties May Share Responsibility
Commercial vehicle accident cases often involve multiple potentially liable parties. The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable. The delivery company may be vicariously liable or directly liable for its own negligence. Vehicle manufacturers may be responsible if a defect contributed to the crash. Maintenance companies may bear liability for failing to properly service the vehicle. Under Texas law, each party can be held responsible for their proportionate share of fault.
Higher Insurance Coverage for Commercial Vehicles
One advantage in commercial vehicle accident cases is that delivery companies typically carry higher insurance policy limits than individual drivers. Under federal and Texas law, commercial vehicles must maintain minimum liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Many large delivery companies carry policies of $1 million or more. This greater coverage can be important for victims with serious injuries requiring extensive medical treatment.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of delivery vehicle accidents may recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and diminished earning capacity. In cases involving gross negligence or reckless conduct, punitive damages may also be available. Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits, making prompt legal action important.
If you’ve been injured in a commercial delivery vehicle accident in Kingwood or the greater Houston area, Hernandez Sunosky LLP is ready to help. Our attorneys have the experience and resources to take on large delivery companies and their insurers. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.