Accidents involving UPS trucks in New York City happen more often than you might think and lead to significant challenges due to the size of the vehicles and the involvement of a corporate entity. If this happens to you or a loved one, knowing what to do can help you manage the legal and financial impacts of these serious collisions.
What Are the First Steps to Take After a UPS Crash?
Following a car accident with a UPS truck in New York City, prioritize safety. Begin by checking for injuries and calling 911. The responding officers can create an official accident report, which may serve as evidence later. If you do not want to request an ambulance, see a medical professional as soon as possible after the accident.
Document the scene by taking photographs of the vehicles, any damage, and the surrounding area, including road signs or signals. Exchange contact information, license numbers, and insurance details with the UPS driver. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. These steps can help preserve valuable information for future reference.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a UPS Truck Accident?
Liability in a UPS truck accident may involve multiple parties. The driver may be held accountable if negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving, contributed to the crash. UPS could also be liable if the accident resulted from poor vehicle maintenance, inadequate training, or improper scheduling practices. Additionally, other motorists or pedestrians may share responsibility if their actions influenced the collision. Determining liability requires examining the facts of the case, including police reports, witness statements, and other evidence like traffic camera footage.
How Does Insurance Coverage Apply in UPS Truck Accidents?
UPS vehicles are typically covered by commercial insurance policies that provide higher limits than standard personal auto insurance. These policies may cover damages such as medical expenses, property repair costs, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering. However, large insurance companies often attempt to limit payouts by disputing claims or shifting liability. Understanding the terms of the applicable insurance policy and providing detailed evidence can help support a claim for compensation.
How Are Damages Calculated After a UPS Truck Accident?
Damages in a UPS truck accident case typically fall into two categories: economic and non-economic.
- Economic damages include tangible costs such as medical bills, lost wages, and property repair expenses.
- Non-economic damages refer to less quantifiable impacts, such as emotional distress and reduced quality of life.
Calculating damages requires detailed records of all expenses and evidence of the accident’s impact on daily life. This may involve medical reports, pay stubs, repair estimates, and testimony from healthcare providers.
What Are Common Challenges in UPS Truck Accident Cases?
Accidents involving UPS trucks often present certain challenges. These may include dealing with large insurance companies or corporate entities that aim to limit their liability. Also, determining liability can be complicated if the accident involves multiple parties, such as another motorist or a pedestrian. Delays in obtaining evidence or insurance cooperation may also arise. Addressing these challenges requires careful documentation and persistence to advocate for fair compensation.
Why Is Prompt Action Important After a UPS Truck Accident?
Taking action soon after a UPS truck accident is important for both legal and health reasons. Timely medical attention helps document injuries and prevents insurance companies from disputing their connection to the accident; evidence like photographs, witness accounts, and police reports should be gathered while the details of the incident are still fresh. In New York, there are deadlines for filing claims or lawsuits, known as statutes of limitations. Missing these deadlines can bar recovery of compensation. We strongly recommend acting promptly to help preserve your right to seek damages.
Brooklyn Car Accident Lawyers at Rubenstein & Rynecki Are Here to Help You with Your Claim
With experience in handling UPS accident cases, the Brooklyn car accident lawyers at Rubenstein & Rynecki can help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses. For a free consultation, call our Brooklyn, New York office at 718-522-1020 or complete our online contact form. We proudly serve clients throughout New York City, including Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.
