UPS operates one of the largest commercial vehicle fleets in the world, with distinctive brown trucks delivering packages in virtually every community. When these vehicles cause accidents, injured parties face a well-funded defendant with experienced legal teams—but also one with substantial insurance coverage and resources to pay valid claims.
UPS as a Direct Employer
Unlike many delivery services that use independent contractors, UPS directly employs most of its delivery drivers. This employment relationship creates clear vicarious liability—UPS is directly responsible for the negligent acts of its drivers performed within the scope of employment.
You don't need to sue the individual driver (though you can). Suing UPS gives you access to their substantial commercial insurance coverage and corporate resources.
Common Causes of UPS Accidents
Time pressure drives many UPS accidents. Drivers face strict delivery quotas and time windows, creating incentives to speed, skip safety checks, and take risks. When companies prioritize productivity over safety, accidents result.
Frequent stops in residential and commercial areas create constant hazards. UPS trucks make hundreds of stops daily, each involving parking, exiting the vehicle, and re-entering traffic.
Large vehicle blind spots make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, cyclists, and smaller vehicles. The boxy design of delivery trucks creates substantial blind zones.
Driver fatigue from long shifts and demanding schedules impairs reaction time and judgment. During peak seasons, overtime and extended routes increase fatigue risks.
Types of UPS Accident Claims
Vehicle collisions with cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles on roadways.
Pedestrian accidents when trucks strike people walking, often in crosswalks or parking areas.
Cyclist accidents involving bicycles struck by UPS trucks, often in blind spot situations.
Property damage when trucks strike mailboxes, fences, vehicles, or structures while delivering.
Loading and unloading injuries to bystanders struck by packages, hand trucks, or the driver during delivery activities.
Evidence in UPS Cases
UPS vehicles have extensive electronic monitoring. Telematics systems track speed, braking, location, and driver behavior. These records can prove speeding, sudden stops, or route deviations that contributed to accidents.
Package tracking systems document the driver's schedule and stops. Delivery records show whether the driver was behind schedule—potentially explaining risk-taking behavior.
Driver logs, training records, and employment files reveal qualifications and any prior incidents. UPS's safety protocols establish the standard of care drivers should have followed.
Dealing with UPS
UPS has sophisticated claims operations. Their adjusters and attorneys work to minimize payouts. Don't give recorded statements or accept quick settlement offers without legal consultation.
UPS carries substantial liability insurance—typically millions of dollars in coverage. Serious injury claims can access these policy limits when liability is clear and damages are significant.
Comparative Fault Issues
UPS commonly argues that accident victims share fault—they stepped into the street unexpectedly, changed lanes without signaling, or were distracted. While comparative fault may reduce recovery, it rarely eliminates claims entirely when the truck driver was clearly negligent.
Pursuing Your Claim
Document the accident thoroughly: photographs of the scene and vehicles, witness contact information, the truck number and driver information, and your injuries. Seek immediate medical attention and follow treatment recommendations.
Contact a personal injury attorney experienced in commercial vehicle accidents. UPS has resources to mount aggressive defenses—you need skilled representation to pursue fair compensation.