FedEx Delivery Truck Accidents

FedEx Delivery Truck Accidents

FedEx was founded as a small delivery company in the early 1970s and has since grown into one of the largest shipping conglomerates in the world. Today, hundreds of thousands of FedEx workers deliver packages across millions of miles of roads both domestically and internationally.

Millions of individuals and businesses rely on FedEx to transport packages safely and promptly. To that end, FedEx trains its drivers to avoid potential hazards and comply with safety regulations. But unfortunately, the sheer number of FedEx drivers and deliveries means that crashes are bound to happen.

If you have been injured in a FedEx truck collision in Illinois, you may be entitled to compensation for the harm and losses you suffered. The knowledgeable truck accident attorneys of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. can help you recover the money you are owed by filing claims against FedEx drivers and possibly FedEx itself. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options in a free initial consultation.

FedEx Crash Facts and Statistics

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) keeps Company Safety Profiles (CSP) for authorized motor carriers in the United States. The CSP for FedEx includes some striking statistics regarding FedEx crashes reported to the FMCSA within a recent two-year period:

  • Nearly 400 traffic wrecks involving FedEx trucks throughout the U.S. were reported.
  • More than a third of these crashes (129 crashes) resulted in reported injuries.
  • Nine fatal FedEx truck crashes occurred. 

Types of Crashes with FedEx Trucks

Here are some of the most common types of FedEx truck crashes:

  • Head-on collisions – A head-on collision occurs when the front end of a FedEx truck crashes into the front of a vehicle coming from the opposite direction.
  • T-bone accidents – A T-bone accident occurs when the front end of a FedEx truck smashes into the side of another vehicle, or vice versa.
  • Rear-end collisions – A rear-end collision occurs when the front end of a FedEx truck hits the rear end of the vehicle ahead of it, or vice versa.
  • Sideswipe accidents – A sideswipe accident occurs when the side of a FedEx truck scrapes or swipes along the side of another vehicle traveling in the same or opposite direction.
  • Rollover crashes – A rollover crash occurs when a vehicle tips over and lands on its side or roof. A FedEx truck could roll over onto a smaller vehicle or propel a smaller vehicle into a rollover.
  • Override collisions – An override collision occurs when a smaller vehicle becomes lodged in the space under the trailer of a truck, such as a large FedEx truck.
  • Cargo spill accidents – A cargo spill accident occurs when the cargo in the back of a FedEx truck bursts out of the trailer and tumbles onto the road, causing other vehicles to swerve and crash.

Why Do FedEx Truck Crashes Occur?

Every truck crash is different, but some of the most common causes of FedEx truck crashes include:

  • Distracted driving – If FedEx drivers are absorbed in text messages, GPS settings, or other distractions, they are significantly more likely to crash.
  • Driving under the influence – FedEx drivers who are drunk or high behind the wheel run the risk of crashing due to impaired judgment, depth perception, and reaction time.
  • Driver fatigue – FedEx drivers may be pressured to quickly deliver packages, so they may skimp on sleep and taking rest breaks. This can make drivers tired and more likely to cause crashes.
  • Reckless driving – Reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, and lane weaving are especially dangerous for drivers of large commercial trucks.
  • Driver error – FedEx drivers who are inexperienced or negligent may commit errors such as ignoring blind spots or failing to yield the right of way, which can easily contribute to devastating crashes.
  • Defective truck parts – When FedEx truck parts are poorly manufactured or maintained, they can fail in transit and result in loss-of-control wrecks.
  • Poor road conditions – When roads have lots of potholes, standing water, or missing signage, driver confusion or loss of control can lead to FedEx crashes.

Claims Process Following a Crash with a FedEx Truck

If you have been injured in a FedEx truck wreck, you can protect your legal rights and establish a strong foundation for your claim by:

  • Seeking prompt medical attention to ensure your injuries are diagnosed, treated, and added to your medical records
  • Following your doctor’s care plan and attending all follow-up appointments
  • Gathering evidence from the accident scene, including photos, contact and insurance details from the other driver, and statements from eyewitnesses
  • Keeping track of medical bills, bank records, pay stubs, repair estimates, and other accident-related documentation as proof of your financial losses
  • Watching what you say to others or post on social media about the incident since anything you say could be used against you
  • Contacting a knowledgeable Illinois truck crash attorney for legal advice

How to Prove Negligence in a FedEx Truck Crash

Even if it’s obvious to you that the FedEx driver was at fault for the collision, you must be able to demonstrate that their negligence caused the crash to obtain money from an injury claim. An attorney can help you identify and preserve useful evidence of negligence, such as:

  • The official accident report from the crash
  • Photos and video footage from the crash scene
  • Physical evidence such as vehicle damage
  • Statements from eyewitnesses who saw the wreck
  • Testimony from experts such as accident reconstruction specialists
  • Data from truck “black box” recorders and electronic logging devices
  • Trucking company hiring, training, maintenance, and dispatch records

Possible Compensation Following a FedEx Truck Wreck

Depending on the circumstances surrounding the FedEx truck crash, you could be entitled to compensation for the following:

  • Present and ongoing medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Lost earning potential
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage

FedEx Truck Accident FAQ – Answered by Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C.

Who can be held liable for a FedEx truck accident?

Determining liability can be complex. Depending on the details of the crash, several parties could be held responsible, including:

  • The FedEx Driver: If the driver’s negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, caused the crash.
  • FedEx Corporation: The company may be held liable for its driver’s actions under a legal doctrine known as “vicarious liability.” FedEx could also be directly liable for negligent hiring, improper training, or failure to properly maintain its fleet.
  • A Third-Party Maintenance Company: If a faulty repair or poor maintenance on the truck contributed to the accident.
  • A Parts Manufacturer: If a defective truck part, such as brakes or tires, failed and led to the collision.

What is the first thing I should do after being hit by a FedEx truck?

Your health and safety are the top priorities. After a crash, you should:

  • Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.
  • Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some serious injuries may not have immediate symptoms.
  • Document the scene by taking photos and videos of the vehicles, your injuries, road conditions, and any relevant details.
  • Exchange information with the FedEx driver, but do not apologize or admit fault.
  • Get contact information from any eyewitnesses.
  • Contact a qualified truck accident lawyer before speaking with any insurance adjusters from FedEx.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a truck accident in Illinois?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. It is crucial to act quickly. Building a strong case requires gathering evidence that can disappear over time, such as driver logbooks, black box data, and witness memories. Contacting an attorney promptly ensures these critical deadlines are met and vital evidence is preserved.

Can I sue FedEx if the driver is an independent contractor?

Yes, you may still be able to hold FedEx liable. While FedEx classifies many of its Ground and Home Delivery drivers as independent contractors to limit their liability, a court may still find the company responsible. If FedEx exerted significant control over the driver’s work, or was negligent in its hiring and supervision, the company can often be included in a personal injury lawsuit.

How much compensation can I get from a FedEx truck accident claim?

The value of your claim depends on many factors unique to your case. There is no average settlement amount, as each case is different. An experienced attorney can help you calculate the full extent of your losses, which may include compensation for:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Damage to your vehicle

An attorney from Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. can evaluate your case for free and give you a clearer understanding of the potential compensation you may be owed.

Contact Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard Today

The dedicated attorneys of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. have recovered more than $2.5 billion for deserving clients throughout Illinois over the last four decades. If you were injured in a FedEx truck driver accident, get in touch with us today to learn how we can fight for the compensation you deserve.