Delivery truck accidents in Alabama often increase during the holiday season because more trucks, tighter deadlines, and heavier traffic all collide at once. Families are out shopping, drivers are rushing to finish shifts, and one wrong move can cause a serious crash.
At Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, our attorneys have handled numerous delivery-related vehicle accident cases, and understand the complexity of these incidents. We combine experience, legal strategy, and real industry insight to help injured clients get clarity fast. If you need legal help in Alabama, contact our law firm today.
Key Takeaways of Delivery Truck Crashes in Alabama
- Holiday pressure, long delivery routes, and congested roads increase the likelihood of delivery crashes during peak season.
- Company policies and unrealistic workloads can contribute to injuries among UPS and FedEx truck drivers in Alabama.
- Quick documentation and early legal support help protect your rights after a holiday delivery accident.
Why Delivery Truck Crashes Jump During the Holidays
Holiday season traffic in Alabama increases on highways, neighborhood streets, and around shopping centers. Companies such as UPS, FedEx, and Amazon strive to meet delivery deadlines, which results in more trucks on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 5,936 people were killed in large truck crashes in 2022, and about 70 percent of those killed were occupants of other vehicles. This illustrates the potential danger of these crashes.
The National Safety Council reports that 114,552 large trucks were involved in injury crashes in 2023, representing a 12 percent increase from 2016. This trend, combined with heavy holiday demand, highlights how the risk increases at the end of the year.
What Really Causes Holiday Delivery Truck Crashes
Holiday delivery pressure increases the likelihood of crashes. Many companies add temporary drivers or increase workloads, which affects safety across Alabama.
How Tired Drivers and Packed Routes Lead to Crashes
Driver fatigue is a significant factor in holiday delivery accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration explains that most commercial drivers can drive 11 hours after 10 hours off duty, within a 14-hour window. These limits exist because fatigue slows reaction time and increases crash risk. During the holidays, drivers often face overloaded routes that create long hours and tight deadlines.
Many contractors and seasonal workers do not have the same level of oversight as full-time commercial drivers. Fatigue can build quickly with long shifts, frequent stops, and crowded roads.
Who Is Really Responsible When a Delivery Driver Crashes
Liability after a delivery truck crash can be complex. Companies may argue that a driver was an independent contractor to avoid responsibility. Alabama courts examine control, training, routing, and scheduling to determine liability. UPS truck injuries and FedEx truck crash cases in Alabama often involve questions about company policies and unrealistic delivery expectations.
Our attorneys review logs, dispatch data, and safety procedures to determine whether a company created hazardous work conditions that contributed to a crash.
How Alabama Roads Make Holiday Crashes More Likely
Holiday traffic in Alabama impacts busy areas, including I-10, I-65, and US-98. Frequent stops, heavy congestion, and early sunsets make driving more difficult. Rain and fog reduce visibility, which increases the risk of holiday delivery accidents. These conditions make it harder for drivers to react to sudden stops or unexpected turns.
What to Do After a Delivery Truck Hits You
A delivery truck crash can cause long-term physical and financial challenges. Taking the right steps early can help build a strong claim.
Call 911 to report the crash and request medical help. Take photos of vehicle damage, the truck, skid marks, and road conditions. Seek medical care as soon as possible to document injuries. Avoid giving statements to company insurance representatives until you speak with a lawyer. A lawyer can review company policies, logs, and route details to help protect your rights.
Explore how our motor vehicle accident lawyers in Alabama can help you.
Other Holiday Delivery Dangers to Watch For
Holiday delivery seasons bring hazards beyond everyday traffic issues.
More Amazon and Contractor Drivers on the Road
Amazon utilizes numerous subcontractors, which may have varying levels of training and oversight. This leads to inconsistent safety practices.
Why Neighborhood Streets and Parking Lots Get Risky
Frequent stops in neighborhoods increase risks for pedestrians. Sudden stops and blocked sightlines cause visibility issues for other drivers.
How Heavy Holiday Workloads Lead to Poor Maintenance
Holiday season workloads make it easy for companies to delay maintenance. Worn brakes, low tire tread, and poor lighting can contribute to crashes.
Need Help After a Holiday Delivery Crash
If you were injured in a holiday delivery truck crash, you do not have to navigate the process alone. Our team can guide you through your options and help you seek fair compensation. Contact us today to get started.
Holiday Delivery Accident Bottom Line
The holiday delivery season brings more trucks, tighter deadlines, and increased opportunities for mistakes. UPS truck injuries and FedEx truck crash cases often involve fatigue, poor policies, or heavy workloads. Quick action after a crash, along with trusted legal guidance, helps protect your health and your claim.
Delivery Truck Accidents in Alabama: FAQ
Why are delivery truck accidents more common during the holidays?
Higher package volume, tighter deadlines, and busier roads increase risks. Seasonal traffic and rushed drivers increase the likelihood of collisions.
Who is responsible if a delivery driver causes a crash?
Responsibility may fall on the driver, the delivery company, or a third party. Courts consider control, training, and scheduling practices.
What should I do after being hit by a delivery truck?
Call the police, document the scene, seek medical care, and contact a truck accident attorney before speaking to insurance representatives.
Are UPS and FedEx drivers considered employees or independent contractors?
It depends on company policies and the level of control over schedules, training, and vehicles.
Can fatigue be used as evidence in a delivery truck injury case?
Yes. Driver logs, schedules, and company practices can show that fatigue contributed to the collision.
About Our Firm
Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana Injury Lawyers help clients across Alabama recover after commercial and delivery truck crashes. Our team provides strong representation and clear guidance through complex legal cases. To learn more, visit our About Us page.