Who is Liable for North Carolina Delivery Driver Accidents with Injuries?

Delivery drivers come in various forms, from those working for large companies like Amazon and UPS to gig-economy workers for food delivery services such as DoorDash and Uber Eats, and independent contractors for local businesses.

The rise of online shopping, food delivery apps, and consumer demand for quick, convenient services has increased the number of delivery drivers on the road. This surge in drivers, often working under pressure to meet tight deadlines, can lead to a higher risk of crashes.

The frequent distractions from navigation apps, the push to make rapid deliveries, and navigating unfamiliar areas all contribute to the rising number of accidents involving delivery drivers in North Carolina.

The question becomes, who can be held liable for these crashes, injuries, and fatalities that result? Our Charlotte commercial vehicle accident attorneys at Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt, P.A. have answers.

Who is Responsible for North Carolina Delivery Driver Accidents with Injuries?

Responsibility for delivery driver accidents with injuries in North Carolina depends on several factors, including the driver’s employment status and the details of the accident.

Although each case requires a thorough investigation to determine who is ultimately responsible, the following are potential parties who can be held liable:

• Employment Status of Driver

If the driver is an employee, the employer may be liable under “vicarious liability” if the accident occurred while the driver performed their duties.

Personal liability may apply if the driver is an independent contractor, though the company’s insurance could still cover particular circumstances.

• Company’s Insurance

Some delivery companies provide insurance for independent contractors, but coverage may only apply during specific times, such as when the driver is actively delivering on behalf of the company.

• Driver’s Personal Liability

Independent contractors may be personally liable for damages, especially if the company’s insurance does not cover them during the accident. In this case, the injured party would pursue the driver’s personal insurance coverage for damages.

• Third-Party Liability

If a defect in the vehicle or faulty maintenance caused the accident, liability might extend to the vehicle owner, manufacturer, or service provider.

To determine liability, a detailed examination of the driver’s employment relationship, applicable insurance policies, and the circumstances of the crash is needed. We can help.

Have You Been Injured in an Accident Caused by a Delivery Driver in North Carolina?

Suppose you were injured in an accident caused by a negligent delivery driver in North Carolina. In that case, our personal injury attorneys in Charlotte at Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt want to hear your story during a free consultation by calling 704-377-3737 or contacting us online.

We provide unique legal services tailored to each client’s needs and do not get paid unless you do.

Your Injury, Our Fight. How can we help you take a stand?

Because every case is different, the description of awards and issues previously managed by our law firm does not guarantee a similar outcome in current or future cases.