You most likely have heard of FedEx; a multi-billion-dollar company that specializes in transporting goods. What you might not know is that FedEx drivers have increasingly been involved in more accidents over the last few years.
Even after implementing new safety procedures, other cars on the road still face risks from these large carrier trucks. FedEx delivery trucks pose a significant risk of causing serious injury or fatality in the event of a crash.
If you were involved in an accident with a carrier vehicle, such as a FedEx truck, then you likely experienced serious injuries, a large pile of medical bills, and growing concern about what to do next.
You don’t have to face a big delivery company and their insurers alone. At The Fitch Law Firm, we specialize in going up against the industry giants that too often try to take advantage of vulnerable people.
FedEx Statistics
The two main services of FedEx include FedEx Ground and FedEx Express. FedEx Express offers faster delivery from FedEx employees and FedEx Ground offers slower delivery carried out mostly by independent contractors.
FedEx works with over 6,000 contractors, or outside companies/individuals, to ensure safe delivery. However, they maintain limited control over the drivers employed by these contractors.
In 2023, the EPA determined that the average passenger vehicle weighs 4,371 pounds, while delivery trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded (TCS). There is little room for error when operating such a large vehicle, which makes it vital for FedEx drivers to follow all necessary safety precautions. Drivers are under pressure to make timely deliveries and often compromise safe driving techniques to satisfy their employers.
Within a two-year span (2022-2024), FedEx was involved in 857 accidents that caused serious injuries and 87 fatal accidents, according to The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Many of these accidents could have been prevented, but FedEx failed to address every aspect of the issue.
In 2023, Insurance Journal stated that, “The amount of self-insurance reserves FedEx sets aside to cover claims surpassed $5 billion for the first time during the fiscal year ending May 31 [2023], up from $2.47 billion in 2017.”
For context, UPS delivers approximately 60% more freight than FedEx and only had $2.9 billion in their self-insurance reserves for 2023. The difference between these two companies, their insurance reserves, and their accident rates, is rooted in the unfair treatment of FedEx’s employees and contractors.
In response to the rising insurance reserves, FedEx implemented enhanced training, vehicle sensors and cameras, and a pay penalty for drivers involved in too many accidents. Even with these precautions taken, the number of accidents and fatalities continues to rise.
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Common Injuries Caused by FedEx Truck Accidents
FedEx trucks are significantly heavier than the average car, making them highly likely to cause injuries in the event of a crash. Here is a list of common injuries caused by FedEx trucks:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Whiplash
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Burns
- Internal Injuries
Depending on the severity of the injury, a victim could be left with a mountain of medical bills that they are not prepared for. A dedicated attorney can organize the financial aspects of your case and determine your potential maximum compensation.
Who is Liable in a FedEx Truck Accident?
If you have been injured in an accident with a FedEx truck it is crucial to determine who was at fault and who pays for your damages. FedEx truck accidents differ from typical car crashes because there may be multiple parties that are potentially liable.
Here are some parties that may be held liable in the event of a FedEx vehicle accident.
- The FedEx Truck Driver
There may be several causes of accidents caused by FedEx truck drivers including distracted driving, driver fatigue, reckless driving, or driving under the influence.
If the driver was the main reason for the crash, he/she may be held personally responsible. However, it is important to determine if FedEx, as a company, shares liability.
- FedEx
If the driver of the FedEx truck was working within the scope of their employment, and negligently caused the accident, FedEx may be held liable. While a driver is working, FedEx has responsibility for their actions.
If the driver carrying the FedEx cargo is employed by a third-party contractor, FedEx may argue it has no liability. This doesn’t mean FedEx cannot still be held responsible. It is important to have an experienced attorney on your side who could prove that FedEx has sufficient control over the hiring or management of the contractor.
- Third Party Contractor
This could include a company employed by FedEx for transportation, a maintenance company that services vehicles, or possibly a truck manufacturer.
A truck accident lawyer can assess all the details of your case and determine each party’s potential liability. If FedEx denies any liability, a diligent attorney can fight to prove its responsibility.
What Can I Be Compensated for After a FedEx Accident?
If you have been involved in an accident with a FedEx delivery vehicle there are several types of compensation you may be entitled to, including non-economic and economic damages.
- Economic damages – Future and past medical bills relating to the accident, property damage, lost wages, or anticipated lost income.
- Non–economic damages – Pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, or emotional distress.
Navigating which damages you qualify for can be tricky. It is best to let an attorney evaluate your case to determine the maximum damages you may be compensated for.
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Dealing with FedEx Insurance Adjusters
An important thing to remember is that FedEx and its insurance providers always have their own interests in mind. They will investigate the accident, estimate the total cost of your damages, determine fault, and generally try to negotiate the lowest possible settlement.
It is best to not give any recorded statements to FedEx’s insurance adjusters, as you are not legally required to do so. Let your attorney handle all communications with FedEx and their insurer to get the best settlement possible. Anything you say to an insurance adjuster can be used against you.
An insurance adjuster can try to make it appear you admitted fault, so it is best to not discuss any aspects of the accident. If an adjuster calls to discuss the accident with you, keep the conversation brief and avoid providing them with any details. If you have an attorney, provide the adjuster with their contact information and inform them that they will handle all future communication.
What Is Next for FedEx
Clarence Dozier, FedEx Ground vice president of safety, stated that minimizing accidents remains a top priority. At a 2023 contractor meeting in Orlando, FedEx executives discussed their recent implementation of new safety procedures and their success at bringing down the accident rate.
FedEx has spent millions creating new safety measures for their own drivers but has often adjusted contractor agreements to be shorter and pay less. This makes it difficult for any contracted company to pay their drivers more, maintain their vehicles, or implement new safety measures themselves.
Insurance Journal notes that FedEx declined to provide data on their driver turnover, while turnover for UPS drivers remains public and under 1%.
Contact A FedEx Accident Attorney Today
FedEx is one of the nation’s leading transportation companies and after an accident, their legal teams will be aggressive in protecting themselves. It is crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side who is confident in battling corporate giants while protecting your best interests.
At The Fitch Law Firm, we have over 30 years of experience representing the victims of delivery truck accidents and fighting for what they deserve. We are prepared to be your advocate in complex cases involving FedEx, UPS, or Amazon delivery trucks.
Contact us today at (614) 810-8074 or on our website so we can begin evaluating your case and get you back on the road to recovery.
