How Box Trucks Are Involved in Accidents and Who’s Liable

Box trucks are used by companies like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS to deliver packages directly to your doorstep. But behind the wheel, drivers face challenges that can turn routine deliveries into serious accidents.

Compared to passenger cars, box trucks have larger blind spots, require longer stopping distances, and carry heavy cargo that can shift unexpectedly. When accidents occur, determining who bears responsibility becomes a complex puzzle involving multiple parties, each with different levels of legal obligation. Contact our truck accident attorney in St. George for assistance in determining accident responsibility.

Common Types of Box Truck Accidents

Box truck drivers frequently navigate residential streets never designed for commercial traffic, make multiple stops throughout busy neighborhoods, and work under tight delivery schedules that can encourage risky driving behaviors. All of these factors can heighten the risk of a collision.

Some of the most common types of box truck accidents include:

• Backing accidents when drivers reverse into loading docks, driveways, or parking spaces with limited visibility
• Intersection accidents caused by drivers running red lights or failing to yield while making deliveries
• Rollover accidents from making turns too quickly or losing control due to improperly secured cargo
• Rear-end crashes when heavy trucks cannot stop in time due to their increased braking distance
• Side-swipe accidents resulting from large blind spots or improper lane changes
• Pedestrian accidents in busy areas where trucks frequently stop and start

In the event you were involved in any of these types of crashes with a box truck, reach out to our truck attorneys to assist you in filing a claim.

Who May Be Liable for a Box Truck Collision?

The Driver of the Box Truck

Individual box truck drivers are liable when their negligent actions cause accidents. This includes speeding, distracted driving, failing to check blind spots, or violating traffic laws. Drivers must maintain proper licensing, follow hours-of-service regulations, and operate their vehicles safely regardless of delivery pressures. When they breach these duties, they can be held responsible for the resulting damages.

The Delivery Company

Companies that rely on box trucks have several legal obligations. They must properly train drivers, maintain vehicles, and establish safe operating procedures. If they fail in these duties, they may be responsible for any accidents that occur. 

Delivery companies can be held liable for inadequate hiring practices, failing to conduct background checks, or pushing drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines that encourage unsafe driving. Additionally, employers are typically liable for employee actions performed within the scope of their job duties.

The Vehicle Manufacturer

Manufacturers must ensure their vehicles meet safety standards and provide adequate warnings about known risks. When mechanical defects contribute to box truck accidents, these manufacturers may bear responsibility. This includes faulty brakes, defective steering systems, tire blowouts, or other equipment failures. 

Government Entities

Municipal and state governments can face liability when dangerous road conditions contribute to accidents. This includes poorly designed intersections, inadequate signage, defective traffic signals, or failure to maintain safe road surfaces.

Cargo Loaders

Third-party loading companies or warehouse workers may be liable when improperly secured cargo causes accidents. Shifting loads can affect vehicle stability, cause rollovers, or create hazardous conditions. 

Injured in a Box Truck Accident? Contact We Win Injury Law

Box truck accidents often involve complex liability questions with multiple responsible parties. When commercial drivers, trucking companies, or maintenance contractors fail in their duties, innocent victims bear the consequences. If you were hurt, the St. George auto accident attorneys at We Win Injury Law can help you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact us at 435-688-9558 today for a free consultation and let our attorneys find out who’s responsible.