San Bernardino Delivery Truck Accident Lawyer

When a delivery truck collides with a passenger car in San Bernardino, the results often devastate victims who find themselves facing Amazon, UPS, FedEx, or other corporate giants backed by teams of insurance adjusters and attorneys determined to minimize payouts.

The legal complexities surrounding delivery truck accidents demand specialized knowledge that goes beyond typical car accident cases.

Our San Bernardino delivery truck accident lawyers combine decades of experience handling commercial vehicle accidents with a personalized approach that ensures you work directly with an attorney throughout your case.

At Krasney Law Accident Attorneys, we understand the specific challenges these cases present and have the resources to take on major delivery companies and their insurers. Contact our delivery truck accident attorneys in San Bernardino today for a free consultation about your delivery truck accident claim.

We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

How Our Delivery Truck Accident Attorneys in San Bernardino Assist With Your Claim

When a delivery truck injures you, you face powerful corporations with teams of lawyers and adjusters working to minimize your claim.

At Krasney Law Accident Attorneys, we provide personalized, one-on-one legal representation that puts your needs first. Unlike large firms where your case gets lost in the shuffle, we ensure direct attorney contact throughout your case.

Our San Bernardino delivery truck accident lawyers immediately spring into action to protect your rights. We send preservation letters within hours to prevent companies from destroying crucial evidence. Our investigators work quickly to gather witness statements, photographs, and video footage before it disappears.

• Evidence Preservation: We secure dash-cam footage, telematics data, and driver logs before delivery companies delete them
• Insurance Negotiations: We handle all communications with Amazon, UPS, FedEx, and other corporate insurers
• Medical Treatment: We arrange medical care on a lien basis so you get treatment now without upfront costs
• Comprehensive Investigation: We identify all liable parties including drivers, companies, and vehicle owners

Types of Delivery Trucks Commonly Seen in San Bernardino

San Bernardino’s position as a major distribution hub means delivery trucks constantly travel through our streets and highways. The Inland Empire’s massive warehouse complexes generate heavy commercial traffic that increases accident risks for regular drivers.

Amazon delivery vans represent the most common type we see in accidents, including both company-owned vehicles and those operated by Delivery Service Providers. UPS package cars and larger freight trucks frequently cause serious injuries due to their size and weight. FedEx operates multiple vehicle types from small vans to large semi-trucks depending on the service level.

USPS mail trucks present unique challenges because they involve federal government liability rules. DHL vehicles, though less common, still cause significant accidents in our area. Food delivery trucks for services like DoorDash and Uber Eats have increased dramatically, leading to more parking lot and residential street accidents.

Local courier services and medical supply companies also operate delivery fleets throughout San Bernardino County. Each vehicle type involves different insurance requirements and liability standards that affect your potential compensation.

Who Is Liable in a San Bernardino Delivery Truck Accident?

Determining liability in delivery truck accidents requires examining multiple parties beyond just the driver. California law allows you to pursue compensation from everyone whose negligence contributed to your injuries. A skilled San Bernardino delivery truck attorney will investigate all potential defendants to maximize your recovery.

The delivery driver bears primary responsibility if they violated traffic laws or drove negligently. However, their employer may also face liability under respondeat superior doctrine, which holds companies responsible for employee actions during work hours. Even independent contractor drivers can create company liability under certain circumstances.

Who Else May Be Responsible Beyond the Driver?

Delivery companies face liability for negligent hiring practices when they fail to properly screen drivers. They must check driving records, conduct background checks, and verify commercial licenses before putting drivers on the road. Companies that skip these steps to fill positions quickly may be held accountable for resulting accidents.

Vehicle maintenance creates another source of liability for delivery companies. Federal and state regulations require regular inspections and repairs of commercial vehicles. Companies that defer maintenance to save money become liable when mechanical failures cause crashes.

• Loading Companies: Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing drivers to lose control
• Vehicle Lessors: Companies that lease trucks to delivery services must maintain them properly
• Manufacturers: Defective brakes, tires, or other components can create product liability claims
• Property Owners: Inadequate lighting or signage at delivery locations may contribute to accidents

What Causes Delivery Truck Accidents in San Bernardino?

The pressure to meet delivery quotas drives many of the dangerous behaviors we see from delivery truck drivers. Companies impose tight schedules that encourage speeding, distracted driving, and other risky practices. Drivers who fall behind schedule may take dangerous shortcuts to avoid penalties.

Distracted driving represents a major problem as drivers constantly check handheld scanners, GPS devices, and mobile apps while driving. These devices require visual attention that takes eyes off the road at critical moments. Phone calls from dispatchers and customers further divide driver attention.

Driver fatigue affects delivery workers who often work long shifts with minimal breaks. The physical demands of loading and unloading packages combined with driving creates exhaustion that impairs reaction times and judgment. Some drivers work for multiple delivery companies to increase income, extending their hours beyond safe limits.

Poor vehicle maintenance causes brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering problems that lead to serious accidents. Delivery companies operating on thin profit margins may defer repairs until vehicles become dangerous. Overloaded trucks strain braking systems and make vehicles harder to control.

Where Do Delivery Truck Accidents Happen in San Bernardino?

The warehouse districts surrounding Interstate 10 and Interstate 215 see heavy delivery truck traffic throughout the day. These industrial areas have multiple lanes of truck traffic merging with passenger vehicles, creating collision risks. Highway on-ramps and off-ramps become particularly dangerous during peak delivery hours.

Residential neighborhoods experience increasing delivery truck accidents as online shopping grows. Narrow streets designed for passenger cars cannot safely accommodate large delivery vehicles. Drivers unfamiliar with neighborhood layouts may strike parked cars, mailboxes, or pedestrians.

Shopping center parking lots present unique hazards as delivery trucks navigate around shoppers and parked vehicles. Limited visibility and tight turning radii increase backing accidents and pedestrian strikes. Busy locations like Victoria Gardens and Inland Center see frequent delivery truck incidents.

Major arterial roads including Hospitality Lane, Waterman Avenue, and Highland Avenue carry heavy delivery traffic between warehouses and residential areas. These corridors experience rear-end collisions when delivery trucks make sudden stops for deliveries.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Delivery Truck Crash?

California law entitles you to full compensation for all losses caused by a delivery truck accident. This includes both economic damages that have specific dollar amounts and non-economic damages for pain and suffering. You should not have to pay for someone else’s negligence out of your own pocket.

Medical expenses represent the most immediate concern for most accident victims. You can recover compensation for emergency room treatment, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, and future medical care. This includes both the bills you have already received and the projected cost of ongoing treatment.

Lost wages compensation covers the income you missed while recovering from your injuries. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job, you can also recover lost future earning capacity. This calculation considers your age, education, work history, and the severity of your limitations.

What Damages Are Available for Medical Bills, Lost Wages, and Pain and Suffering?

Property damage compensation covers repairs to your vehicle or replacement if it was totaled. You may also recover rental car costs while your vehicle is being repaired. Personal items damaged in the crash, such as electronics or clothing, are also recoverable.

Pain and suffering damages compensate you for the physical discomfort and emotional trauma caused by the accident. These damages are subjective but can be substantial in cases involving serious injuries. Factors include the severity of your injuries, length of recovery, and impact on your daily activities.

Can Families Bring a Wrongful Death Claim?

Families can file wrongful death claims when delivery truck accidents result in fatalities. California law allows spouses, children, and parents to seek compensation for their losses. These claims must be filed within two years of the death.

What Steps Should You Take After a Delivery Truck Accident?

Taking the right steps immediately after a delivery truck accident protects both your health and your legal rights. The decisions you make in the first few hours can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation later.

Get Medical Care and Call 911

Your health must be the top priority after any accident. Even if you feel fine initially, adrenaline can mask serious injuries that become apparent later. Some injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not show symptoms immediately but can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Calling 911 ensures that police respond to document the accident scene and create an official report. This report becomes crucial evidence for your insurance claim and any lawsuit. Emergency medical personnel can also evaluate your condition and provide immediate treatment if needed.

Preserve Photos and Witnesses

If you are physically able, document the accident scene thoroughly with photographs. Take pictures of all vehicles involved, focusing on the damage and the truck’s identifying information. Capture the license plate, DOT number, and any company logos or contact information displayed on the vehicle.

Photograph the surrounding area including traffic signals, road conditions, and any debris from the accident. Take pictures of your visible injuries and any torn or damaged clothing. Get contact information from witnesses who saw the accident occur, as their testimony may be valuable later.

Avoid Recorded Statements

Insurance adjusters for the delivery company will likely contact you within hours of the accident requesting a recorded statement. They may seem friendly and concerned about your welfare, but their goal is to minimize the company’s liability. Politely decline to give any recorded statements until you have consulted with an attorney.

Even seemingly innocent comments can be taken out of context and used against you later. Adjusters are trained to ask leading questions that may cause you to inadvertently accept partial blame for the accident.

Call Us to Preserve Video, Telematics and Scanner Data

Delivery trucks contain sophisticated electronic systems that record valuable data about the accident. This includes GPS tracking, speed monitoring, braking patterns, and dash-cam footage. However, this data can be deleted by companies unless they are legally required to preserve it.

We immediately send preservation letters to delivery companies demanding they retain all electronic data related to your accident. This quick action prevents the destruction of evidence that could prove the driver’s negligence and strengthen your case.

What Evidence Matters in Delivery Truck Claims?

Delivery truck accident cases require more complex evidence gathering than typical car accidents. These vehicles contain electronic monitoring systems that provide detailed information about the driver’s actions before and during the crash. Securing this evidence quickly is essential because companies routinely delete data to avoid liability.

Modern delivery trucks are equipped with telematics systems that monitor vehicle speed, braking, acceleration, and location. This data can prove whether the driver was speeding, following too closely, or making sudden maneuvers before the accident. Electronic logging devices also track driver hours to determine if fatigue played a role.

How We Preserve Telematics, Dash-Cam, and Route or Scanner Data

Dash-cam footage provides the most compelling evidence of how an accident occurred. Many delivery trucks have forward-facing cameras that capture the moments leading up to a crash. Some vehicles also have cameras monitoring the driver’s behavior inside the cab.

Scanner data reveals the driver’s delivery schedule and whether they were running behind, which could explain rushing or reckless behavior. Route optimization software shows the planned versus actual path taken by the driver. Driver communication logs with dispatchers may reveal pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines.

• GPS Tracking: Shows exact location, speed, and direction of travel at time of impact
• Electronic Braking Systems: Records when and how hard the driver applied brakes
• Engine Control Modules: Capture throttle position and vehicle diagnostics
• Driver Behavior Monitoring: Tracks harsh braking, rapid acceleration, and sharp turns

This electronic evidence can contradict the driver’s version of events and provide objective proof of negligence; however, delivery companies often retain such data only for a limited time before it is automatically deleted.

What Is the Value of a San Bernardino Delivery Truck Injury Case?

Every delivery truck accident case has unique circumstances that affect its potential value. The severity of your injuries, the strength of the liability evidence, and the available insurance coverage all play important roles in determining compensation. Our experienced attorneys evaluate these factors to estimate your case’s worth.

Serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and result in permanent disabilities typically have higher values. Cases involving traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or multiple fractures often result in substantial settlements. The impact on your ability to work and enjoy life also affects compensation amounts.

The degree of the truck driver’s fault influences case value significantly. Clear evidence of negligence such as speeding, distracted driving, or traffic violations strengthens your position in negotiations. Multiple liable parties can increase the total available insurance coverage.

What Factors Can Increase or Reduce Value?

California follows a pure comparative negligence system that allows you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault, but you don’t lose all rights unless you were 100% responsible. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages.

Strong liability evidence against the delivery truck driver maximizes your recovery potential. Witnesses, video footage, and electronic data that clearly show the driver’s negligence leave little room for the insurance company to dispute fault. Weak evidence may result in lower settlement offers or the need for trial.

The delivery company’s insurance policy limits also affect case value. Large corporations typically carry substantial commercial insurance, but some smaller delivery services may have minimal coverage. We investigate all potential sources of compensation including the driver’s personal insurance and the vehicle owner’s policy.

What If You Are Partly at Fault in California?

California’s pure comparative negligence law protects your right to compensation even when you share some responsibility for the accident. This system recognizes that accidents often result from multiple contributing factors rather than the sole fault of one party. You can recover damages as long as you were not entirely responsible for the crash.

The court or jury assigns a percentage of fault to each party based on their contribution to the accident. Your final compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault, but you still receive the majority of damages if the delivery truck driver bears primary responsibility.

For example, if you were texting while driving but the delivery truck ran a red light, you might be found 25% at fault while the truck driver is 75% responsible. You would receive 75% of your total damages, which could still amount to a substantial recovery for serious injuries.

How Long Do You Have to File in California?

California’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible parties. This deadline is strictly enforced, and filing even one day late typically results in dismissal of your case. However, certain circumstances can extend or shorten this time limit.

If the delivery truck accident involved a government entity such as the United States Postal Service, you must file a formal claim within six months of the accident. This administrative claim is a prerequisite to filing a lawsuit against government agencies. Missing this shorter deadline can permanently bar your case.

The discovery rule may extend the filing deadline if your injuries were not immediately apparent after the accident. Some conditions like traumatic brain injuries or internal organ damage may not be diagnosed until weeks or months later. In these cases, the two-year period begins when you discover or should have discovered the injury.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire Our San Bernardino Delivery Truck Accident Lawyer?

Krasney Law Accident Attorneys handles all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you. This arrangement eliminates the financial barrier that prevents many accident victims from obtaining quality legal representation.

Our contingency fee comes from your final settlement or court award, so our interests align perfectly with yours. We are motivated to maximize your recovery because our fee depends on achieving the best possible result. You will never receive a bill for attorney fees if we cannot secure compensation for your injuries.

This fee structure allows you to have experienced legal representation without any upfront costs or hourly billing. We advance all case expenses including expert witness fees, court costs, and investigation expenses. You only reimburse these costs if we win your case.

What Injuries Do Delivery Truck Collisions Commonly Cause?

The size and weight difference between delivery trucks and passenger vehicles creates a high risk of serious injuries in collisions. Even smaller delivery vans can be much heavier than a typical car when fully loaded. This weight disparity means occupants of smaller vehicles absorb most of the crash forces.

Traumatic brain injuries occur frequently in delivery truck accidents due to the violent forces involved in high-speed collisions. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can include memory problems, personality changes, and cognitive difficulties.

Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis depending on the location and severity of the damage. Even incomplete spinal cord injuries often cause permanent disabilities that require extensive rehabilitation and ongoing medical care. The financial impact of these injuries can reach millions of dollars over a lifetime.

• Broken Bones: Multiple fractures requiring surgery and extended recovery periods
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs that may require emergency surgery
• Whiplash: Neck and back injuries causing chronic pain and limited mobility
• Psychological Trauma: PTSD and anxiety disorders affecting daily functioning

Why San Bernardino Sees More Delivery Truck Accidents

San Bernardino County’s strategic location and massive warehouse infrastructure make it a major distribution hub for the western United States. The proximity to Los Angeles and Long Beach ports brings goods through the area via truck transport. This concentration of commercial activity significantly increases delivery truck traffic on local roads.

The intersection of major highways including Interstate 10, Interstate 215, and State Route 210 creates complex traffic patterns with heavy truck volumes. These highways carry goods from ports to distribution centers and then to consumers throughout Southern California. The mixing of commercial and passenger traffic increases accident risks.

E-commerce growth has dramatically increased the number of delivery vehicles on residential streets that were not designed for commercial traffic. Neighborhoods now see constant delivery truck activity as consumers shift to online shopping. This change has created new accident patterns in areas previously considered low-risk for commercial vehicle crashes.

Results and Client Stories

Our San Bernardino delivery truck accident lawyers have successfully represented clients injured by vehicles from all major delivery companies. In one recent case, we secured substantial compensation for a family whose vehicle was rear-ended by a speeding Amazon delivery van at a red light. The driver was rushing to complete his route before the end of his shift.

Another client suffered serious injuries when a UPS truck made an illegal left turn across traffic during peak delivery hours. Our investigation revealed the driver had been working excessive hours and was behind schedule due to unrealistic delivery quotas. The case settled for a significant amount that covered all medical expenses and lost wages.

We also represented a cyclist who was struck by a FedEx truck in a residential neighborhood. The driver claimed he didn’t see the cyclist, but our investigation found the truck’s mirrors were improperly adjusted and the driver was distracted by his scanner device. The settlement provided funds for ongoing medical care and adaptive equipment.

Speak With a San Bernardino Delivery Truck Accident Lawyer

Fighting large delivery corporations and their insurance companies requires experienced legal representation that understands the complexities of commercial vehicle accidents. These companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to minimize their liability from the moment an accident occurs. You need equally skilled advocates protecting your interests.

At Krasney Law Accident Attorneys, we have the resources and experience necessary to take on major delivery companies and their insurers. Our track record of successful results demonstrates our ability to secure fair compensation for seriously injured clients. We are not intimidated by corporate legal teams or their tactics to devalue legitimate claims.

Visit Our San Bernardino Office or Schedule a Free Consultation

Our San Bernardino office provides convenient access to experienced delivery truck accident attorneys who understand local traffic patterns and accident causes. We also offer phone and video consultations for clients who cannot travel to our office due to their injuries.

During your free consultation, we will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and answer all your questions about the claims process. You will speak directly with an attorney, not a paralegal or case manager. This personal attention continues throughout your case as we keep you informed of all developments.

Contact Krasney Law Accident Attorneys today for your free consultation. We are available 24/7 to discuss your delivery truck accident and begin protecting your rights immediately.

FAQ: San Bernardino Delivery Truck Accidents

Are Amazon, UPS or FedEx Liable if the Driver Is a Contractor?

Yes, parent companies can often be held liable for contractor negligence under theories like negligent hiring or supervision. Courts also consider whether the company exercises significant control over the driver’s work through apps, quotas, and routing requirements.

Do Federal Trucking Rules Apply to Delivery Vans Under 10,001 Pounds?

Most delivery vans fall below federal DOT regulation thresholds, but drivers must still follow California traffic laws and company safety policies. State regulations and civil liability standards still apply to create legal obligations for safe operation.

How Quickly Must You Send a Preservation Letter for Electronic Data?

We send preservation letters within 24 hours to ensure telematics, video, and other electronic data are preserved.

What if You Were Hit in a Parking Lot or Driveway?

You still have valid legal claims for injuries suffered on private property. Delivery drivers must exercise extreme caution in parking lots and residential areas where pedestrians and other vehicles are present.

Should You Give a Recorded Statement to the Company’s Insurance?

No, you should politely decline and contact an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that may cause you to inadvertently damage your own claim or accept partial blame for the accident.

Can You Recover if the Delivery Truck Left the Scene?

Yes, you may recover through your uninsured motorist coverage or by identifying the truck through witnesses, surveillance cameras, or partial license plate information. Hit-and-run accidents do not eliminate your right to compensation.

What if the Accident Happened During Peak Holiday Delivery Season?

Holiday seasons often increase accident risks due to driver fatigue, increased delivery pressure, and unfamiliar temporary drivers. These factors can actually strengthen your case by showing the company prioritized profits over safety.