Online shopping and food delivery have exploded in recent years, and so has the number of delivery vehicles on the road. In cities like Sparks, Nevada, it's common to see Amazon vans, Instacart drivers, Uber Eats delivery cars, and other gig economy vehicles navigating neighborhood streets and highways.
While this growth in convenience has its perks, it also brings a new set of risks. Delivery drivers are often in a hurry, using GPS systems, making frequent stops, and sometimes operating in unfamiliar areas. These conditions can increase the likelihood of collisions.
If you were injured in a car accident involving a delivery driver in Sparks, you may be wondering who is responsible and how you can recover compensation. Below, we explore how liability works in these situations and why it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Who Is Liable in a Delivery Driver Accident?
Determining liability after being hit by a delivery driver in Sparks depends on a few key factors, such as the driver’s employment status, what they were doing at the time of the accident, and whose insurance policy applies. Here are a few factors for consideration:
Was the Driver Working for a Company or a Contractor?
Some drivers work as traditional employees for companies like FedEx or UPS. Others are independent contractors using apps like DoorDash, Amazon Flex, or Uber Eats. This difference can affect who is legally responsible for the crash.
Were They “On the Clock” at the Time of the Accident?
If the delivery driver was actively working when the accident occurred, their employer or the platform may share liability. If the driver was off-duty or using their vehicle for personal errands, their personal auto insurance may be the only source of coverage.
Commercial Insurance Policies
Large delivery companies often carry commercial auto insurance that can cover injuries caused by their drivers. Gig platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Amazon Flex may also provide liability coverage under certain conditions.
These policies typically:
Cover accidents that occur while the driver is actively on a delivery
May not apply if the driver is merely waiting for an assignment or using the app but not in transit
What Should You Do After an Accident With a Delivery Driver?
After a crash involving a delivery vehicle, taking the right steps can help protect your legal rights.
These include:
Call 911 and report the accident to law enforcement. A police report can serve as a key piece of evidence.
Get medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel injured right away.
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
Collect information from the delivery driver, including the platform or company they were working for.
Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters until you speak with a lawyer.
Taking these steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your case after an accident involving a delivery driver.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Because these types of cases often involve multiple parties and overlapping insurance policies, it can be difficult to determine who is financially responsible. Insurance companies may attempt to delay or deny valid claims, and delivery platforms may try to avoid liability by classifying drivers as independent contractors.
An experienced personal injury attorney can:
Investigate the accident thoroughly
Identify all potential sources of compensation
Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
Help you pursue damages for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more
By working with a skilled car accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the complexities of your case.
Talk to a Sparks Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you were hit by a delivery driver in Sparks, do not try to handle the situation alone. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we have extensive experience handling vehicle accident cases, including those involving gig economy and commercial drivers. We will help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us online or call (775) 573-0229 today to schedule a consultation.