The Rise of Delivery Vehicle Accidents
E-commerce has fundamentally changed how goods are transported. With same-day and next-day delivery becoming standard, delivery vehicles are under increasing pressure to make more stops in less time—often at the expense of safety.
Industry Statistics
Delivery drivers in the US
Increase in delivery volume since 2019
Fatal delivery vehicle crashes annually
Major Delivery Companies
Each major delivery company has different operational structures that affect liability:
Amazon Delivery
Amazon uses a complex network of Delivery Service Partners (DSPs), independent contractors, and Amazon Flex drivers. This structure creates liability questions about whether Amazon or the DSP is responsible for accidents.
FedEx
FedEx Ground uses independent contractors who own their own vehicles, while FedEx Express uses company employees. This distinction significantly impacts liability in accident cases.
UPS
UPS primarily uses employee drivers in company-owned vehicles, generally making liability more straightforward. UPS drivers are represented by the Teamsters union and have stricter safety protocols.
USPS
As a federal agency, claims against USPS are governed by the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), which has specific procedural requirements and shorter deadlines.
Common Causes of Delivery Truck Accidents
Unrealistic Delivery Quotas
Pressure to complete hundreds of stops per day leads to rushing and corner-cutting
Distracted Driving
Constant use of GPS, delivery apps, and scanning devices while driving
Improper Parking
Double-parking, blocking traffic, and parking in unsafe locations
Driver Fatigue
Long shifts during peak seasons like holidays
Inadequate Training
High turnover means many drivers lack proper training
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Fleet vehicles may not receive adequate upkeep
Liability in Delivery Truck Accidents
Delivery company liability structures are deliberately complex. A skilled attorney will investigate:
- Employment relationship: Employee vs. independent contractor status
- Control factors: How much control does the company exercise over drivers?
- Vehicle ownership: Who owns and maintains the delivery vehicle?
- Insurance policies: Multiple layers of coverage may apply
Major delivery companies have teams of lawyers ready to minimize their liability. You need experienced legal representation to navigate their corporate structures and hold the right parties accountable.