Online shopping is one of the most lucrative streams of commerce in the United States. The steady increase in online shopping options combined with competition for quick delivery turnarounds has made the presence of delivery trucks ubiquitous throughout the United States. However, the demand has led to an increase in truck congestion and Maryland delivery truck accidents. After the United States Postal Service, FedEx is the next largest delivery company in America. In most cases, these large delivery companies take steps to ensure the safety of their fleet and the training of their drivers. However, consumer demand in conjunction with company expectations makes accidents an inevitable consequence of modern-day shopping.
For example, recent news reports described a catastrophic accident between a FedEx delivery truck and a motorcyclist. According to witness and police accounts, the motorcyclist was traveling east when a westbound delivery truck turned left into the biker’s bath. The motorcycle slammed into the front of the truck, ejecting the biker from his motorcycle. The delivery truck driver did not suffer physical injuries, but the motorcyclist remains in the hospital in critical condition.
The aftermath of these accidents largely depends on the type of delivery truck involved in the accident. FedEx maintains a variety of vehicles in its fleet, including small trucks, truck tractors-, trailers, and vans. In addition to small parcels and letters, these vans often transport household items, building supplies, machinery, agricultural supplies, and food items. When these trucks are involved in an accident, their cargo may become dislodged, posing a potentially serious health and safety risk to those in its vicinity.
What Are the most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents Involving Large Trucks?
Although these companies typically maintain strict hiring, training, and retention practices, many accidents involve driver error. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), most delivery truck accidents stem from speeding, driver inattention, or unsafe lane changes. Some other causes involve impaired driving and aggressive driving resulting in road rage. In addition, some accidents occur because of an issue with the actual vehicle. This includes unsafe tires, brake system issues, defective or broken lights and signals, and inoperative windshield wipers. Companies that do not comply with federal and state trucking regulations may face liability for accidents.
As the above case illustrates, these accidents can have devastating consequences. Many people involved in an accident with a FedEx delivery truck suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, lacerations, and even death.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a Maryland Trucking Accident?
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a Maryland trucking accident, contact the personal injury attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen. The attorneys at our office provide clients with respect, compassion, and fierce advocacy on their behalf. We understand the catastrophic consequences of an accident and work to ensure that our clients recover the compensation they deserve. In addition to Maryland trucking accidents, our office represents clients in claims stemming from car accidents, medical malpractice, birth injuries, nursing home negligence, motorcycle accidents, and more. Contact our office at 800-654-1949 to schedule a free and confidential initial consultation with an attorney on our team.