Dozens of mail vehicles travel the roads of America on the daily basis. While hundreds of motor vehicle crashes happen throughout the country on any given day, it can be expected for several crashes during the year to involve mail vehicles.
If you have been hit by a mail vehicle, you might be able to file a personal injury claim against the delivery driver. You should keep all documentation to support your claim, including the accident report.
Because some states use modified comparative negligence, you can file a personal injury claim against the other driver as long as you are no more than 51% at fault for the car accident. You can prove responsibility and fault for the injuries and damages that resulted from the crash.
How Negligence Plays A Role in Being Hit
Studies show that most car crashes could be prevented. Negligence plays a role in many of these accidents. If you show that the other driver's negligence contributed to or caused the crash, you can have a successful personal injury claim.
In a personal injury claim, you can recover compensation for the economic and non-economic damages that you suffered because of the accident. Examples of negligence are following too closely, speeding, reckless driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and failure to keep your vehicle in its lane of traffic.
Ignoring traffic signs or traffic signals are also negligent acts. The accident report might indicate the cause of the crash. Because of the modified comparative negligence approach that is used, you need to prove that the other driver was at least 49% at fault for the crash and your damages resulted from that crash.
Damages That Result From Being Hit
Mail vehicles carry loads, so many of these vehicles are larger and heavier. These vehicles can cause extensive damage to a traditional vehicle. Property damages include the damages to your vehicle, so you should get photos of the damage and have a written estimate prepared to detail the damages your vehicle suffered and the cost of repairing that damage.
Other damages include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future medical expenses, future loss of earnings, mental trauma, and permanent disfigurement and scarring. Keep medical reports, medical bills, proof of lost wages, and take photos of any visible injuries and scars.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were hit by a mail truck, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. With the help of a lawyer, you can file a personal injury claim. Your lawyer will investigate the accident and build a strong case.
Because your attorney will not be paid until you get a judgment or settlement, you have nothing to lose. There is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims in certain states, so schedule a free case evaluation with an auto accident injury attorney right away.
Additional Resources
- Michigan Car Accident Lawyer
- Help! I Crashed While Merging with a USPS Truck
- Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Michigan
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against USPS, or any party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
