New Jerseyans have long been known for their fondness for shopping malls, but thanks to the pandemic, many Garden State residents are opting to stay home and shop from the comfort of their couches. As a result, door-to-door delivery services are growing like crazy. Unfortunately, so are the number of Bergen County residents involved in serious car accidents with delivery drivers.
Home Delivery Is A Hot Market
The pandemic has dramatically increased the demand for home delivery of all sorts of goods. Even items like clothing, groceries, and fast food, which everyone thought would be difficult to move beyond the brick and mortar model, have proven popular with those who like the convenience of online shopping and door to door delivery.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, e-commerce sales jumped nearly 32% in 2020, and we are on pace to set a new record for online sales this year. To meet the demand, delivery companies such as Amazon, FedEx, and UPS; food delivery companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and Postmates; and the good old United States Postal Service have hired as many drivers as they could.
An increase in the number of delivery vehicles on the road has led to an increase in the number of accidents caused by delivery drivers. The Levin & Malkin team has helped several Hackensack area residents seek compensation following an accident involving a delivery vehicle.
Who Is At Fault?
Accidents involving delivery vehicles are often more severe than other car accidents. This is because the drivers are in a rush, thinking about their delivery tasks instead of focusing on safe driving, and may be driving large, unfamiliar vehicles. Driver fatigue, improper loading, and inadequate training may also play a role in some accidents. It is often clear that the delivery driver is the one at fault.
Many accident victims think that evidence showing the delivery driver was at fault should increase their compensation. However, New Jersey is a no-fault state. Under our state laws, you will make a claim against the personal injury protection (PIP) coverage your insurance policy provides rather than seeking compensation from the delivery driver.
However, if your injuries exceed your PIP coverage, and they are considered permanent — like scarring, lasting pain, or a disability — you may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the delivery driver. A lawsuit can get you additional compensation, and make sure the driver and their employer are held accountable. Levin & Malkin’s experienced team of New Jersey car accident attorneys can help you determine if filing a lawsuit would be appropriate.
Millions Won For Our Clients
If you are a Hackensack area resident who has been injured by a delivery driver, the Levin & Malkin team is here for you. Our experienced New Jersey personal injury attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for injured New Jerseyans and their families. If you would like to schedule a free initial consultation with a member of our team, please contact us today.
Posted in: Car Accidents