What to do if a UPS truck hits your car

You might be surprised how often Americans are involved in collisions with UPS trucks and other delivery vehicles.  And with the recent uptick in online shopping and home delivery services, the incidence has been increasing and is likely to continue to do so. Here is what you should do if a UPS driver hits your car.

Eight Steps to Take if a UPS Truck Hits Your Car

Car accidents can be confusing. This is especially true if your accident involves a corporate delivery service, like UPS. A UPS report shows that drivers experience approximately one accident per 100,000 driver hours. If you find yourself in an accident with a UPS truck, it is essential that you know what to do to protect yourself, physically and legally. Consulting with a car accident lawyer in Orange Beach can provide the guidance and representation you need in such situations, ensuring your rights are safeguarded throughout the process.

1) Call the Police and Ensure the Accident is Reported

The first thing you should do is call the police. In Alabama, you must file a police report within 30 days of your accident if it involves any injuries or property damage over $250.

2) Take Photos and Videos of the Scene

If you can, it is important that you take photos of the accident scene and all vehicles involved before they are moved. If the accident occurred on a busy roadway, the vehicles would likely be moved quickly. If you are unable to photographically document the vehicles before they are moved, you should still take photos of all vehicles after the accident.

If possible, it is best to take multiple pictures of the same subjects from different angles to illustrate the actual state of property damage.

3) Take Photos of Your Injuries

If you or someone in your vehicle sustained physical injuries, you should take pictures to document these injuries ASAP. This can be useful for future legal steps you choose to take.

4) Take Witness Information

Find out if anyone saw the accident or witnessed the driver’s reckless behavior before the accident. Be sure to take down their contact information.

It’s also worth noting if there are CCTV cameras in the area or if local shops’ cameras may have captured the accident. If so, speak with the shop owners about getting a copy of the footage.

5) Go to the Hospital

Even if you do not feel injured, it is imperative that you receive a complete body check-up after your accident. Some injuries can lie dormant for weeks or months before showing signs. A check-up should catch any issues that may cause you later problems. Your injuries must be officially documented for legal reasons.

6) Document All Expenses Related to the Accident

You should document any expenses related to your accident. This could include the following:

• Medical expenses
• Anticipated future medical expenses
• Property damage
• Lost wages
• Possible lost future wages
• Pain and suffering

If you are unsure whether you can claim an expense, it is best to document it until you can check with a lawyer.

7) Speak with a UPS Accident Lawyer

It is crucial that you speak with a UPS accident attorney as quickly as possible. The statute of limitations, or deadline, for these accident claims is only two years in Alabama. That means you only have two years to consult with a lawyer and file a legal claim in the local Alabama courts.

8) Determine Your Legal Plan of Action

Your attorney will be able to review the facts of your case and help you select the ideal legal action plan. This may include filing a property damage claim with UPS’s insurance, filing a lawsuit, or claiming the damages through an insurance claim. Your lawyer will walk you through every available option and explain the pros and cons associated with each.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you have been hit by a UPS truck, you will likely have some questions. Below is a selection of questions commonly asked by people in similar circumstances. For answers about your specific case, it is best to consult an experienced UPS accident lawyer.

What to do if a UPS truck hits my car?

If a UPS truck hits your car in Alabama, you should:

1. Call the Police and Ensure the Accident is Reported
2. Take Photos and Videos of the Scene
3. Take Photos of Your Injuries
4. Take Witness Information
5. Go to the Hospital
6. Document All Expenses Related to the Accident
7. Speak with a UPS Accident Lawyer
8. Determine Your Legal Plan of Action

Can I sue a UPS driver for hitting my car?

Yes, in Alabama, if the UPS driver is negligent, you may be able to sue them or their company for damages related to the car accident. A skilled UPS accident attorney can help you determine your best legal course of action.

What happens when a UPS driver hits your car?

When a UPS driver hits your car, you may be injured, along with your vehicle. Depending on who was at fault, you may be eligible to claim damages for losses related to your accident. A reputable UPS truck accident attorney can help.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit if a UPS driver hits my car?

In Alabama, you must file a lawsuit within two years of your UPS truck accident. If you fail to file within the two-year deadline, the statute of limitations will expire, and you will be unable to make a legal claim.

What Can an Alabama UPS Accident Lawyer Do for You?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a UPS accident, it is vital that you speak with a local Alabama truck accident lawyer who is experienced in handling UPS accidents or other similar crashes involving delivery services. The time you have to file a legal claim is not unlimited, and the clock started ticking when your car accident occurred.

Vehicle owners who have sustained significant losses may be able to reclaim their damages via the legal system. If the UPS driver was negligent and liable for the accident, then an Alabama UPS accident lawyer can help you reclaim the money you are owed for your injuries and losses. The Alabama legal team at Caldwell Wenzel Asthana Injury Lawyers are here to help. Contact us today to set up your consultation.