Being hit by a UPS truck can be overwhelming, whether you were driving another vehicle, cycling, or simply walking across the street. Delivery trucks are larger, heavier, and harder to stop than passenger cars, which means the injuries they cause are often severe. On top of that, when a large company like UPS is involved, the claims process becomes far more complex than a typical car accident.
At Simeone & Miller, we understand how devastating these collisions can be for Arlington residents. Knowing the steps to take after being hit by a UPS truck can make the difference between protecting your rights and facing unnecessary financial and legal challenges.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Medical Care
The first and most important step is to seek immediate medical attention. Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, adrenaline and shock can mask symptoms of concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue injuries. Prompt treatment not only protects your health but also creates a medical record that can be vital for your injury claim later.
Step 2: Call Law Enforcement
Always report the accident to the local Arlington police. An official accident report will document key details such as who was involved, road conditions, and whether the UPS driver received any citations. This report can serve as important evidence when pursuing compensation.
Step 3: Document the Scene
If you are physically able, gather as much evidence from the accident scene as possible:
- Take photos of your injuries, vehicle damage, and the UPS truck.
- Note the truck’s license plate and USDOT number.
- Gather the driver’s name, contact details, and insurance information.
- Collect contact information for any witnesses.
This information helps establish liability and strengthens your case.
Step 4: Preserve Evidence
Keep all accident-related documentation, including medical bills, treatment records, receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, and proof of lost wages. If your car was damaged, hold onto repair estimates and photographs. Preserving evidence helps ensure that no detail of your financial and personal losses is overlooked.
Step 5: Understand Potential Liability
In accidents involving delivery trucks, multiple parties could be responsible:
- The UPS driver if negligence, such as speeding, fatigue, or distraction caused the accident.
- UPS as the employer under the legal principle of “respondeat superior,” which holds companies responsible for their employees’ actions while on the job.
- Third parties, such as maintenance providers or manufacturers if a mechanical failure contributed to the crash.
Determining liability can be complex, and corporations often have resources to contest claims. That’s why having an experienced attorney on your side is critical.
Step 6: Consult a Lawyer as Soon as Possible
UPS and its insurance carriers may try to settle quickly to save money. These early offers often fail to cover the full extent of medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, or long-term complications. Before accepting any settlement, consult with a personal injury lawyer who understands the unique challenges of delivery truck cases.
At Simeone & Miller, we have the experience to stand up to large corporations and fight for fair compensation. We investigate thoroughly, consult experts, and build strong cases to hold negligent parties accountable.
Why Arlington Residents Need Legal Support After a UPS Truck Accident
Accidents involving delivery trucks can disrupt your health, career, and financial stability. Arlington’s busy streets see frequent commercial vehicle traffic, and victims often feel pressured by large insurers to accept less than they deserve. With skilled legal representation, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that your claim accurately reflects your losses.
Contact Simeone & Miller Today
If you’ve been hit by a UPS truck in Arlington, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Simeone & Miller, our attorneys are dedicated to helping accident victims recover full and fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you through the next steps with confidence.
