The Rising Dangers of Delivery Trucks: How Increased Deliveries Are Putting Motorists at Risk

With the growth of e-commerce and online shopping, delivery trucks are an ever-present sight on the roads of Illinois and throughout the nation. From large parcel companies to local couriers, the number of delivery vehicles has skyrocketed in recent years. These trucks are critical for delivering everything from essential goods to online purchases directly to our doorsteps. While this trend has provided convenience for consumers, it has also brought with it an increased risk on our roads. The surge in delivery traffic, combined with the high-pressure nature of the industry, makes delivery trucks a growing safety hazard for other motorists.

The rise of same-day and next-day delivery services has added immense pressure to companies and drivers to meet tight deadlines. As a result, delivery trucks are often on the road for extended hours, navigating through residential neighborhoods, busy highways, and everything in between. Inexperienced or fatigued drivers, poorly maintained vehicles, and the sheer volume of deliveries all contribute to the increasing risk of accidents involving delivery trucks. These vehicles, though smaller than semi-trucks, can still cause serious injuries or fatalities in collisions with passenger cars.

The statistics back up this trend. According to a report by World Economic Forum, it is estimated that there will be over 1/3 more delivery vehicles on the roads by 2030, delivering 78% more packages to consumers. The pandemic accelerated online shopping trends, and many experts believe the elevated levels of deliveries are here to stay. This increase in truck traffic directly correlates with a rise in accidents involving delivery vehicles. In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that light and medium-sized trucks involved in crashes have seen a 12% uptick since 2019. With this trend only expected to grow, the dangers of delivery trucks on our roads must not be overlooked.

The Risks Posed by Delivery Trucks

Delivery trucks, whether large box trucks or smaller vans, present unique dangers to other drivers. These trucks are often on tight schedules, leading to risky driving behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, and aggressive maneuvering in traffic. The pressure to meet delivery deadlines often forces drivers to push the limits of safety, particularly in congested urban areas where they may be navigating unfamiliar routes.

One significant risk associated with delivery trucks is driver fatigue. Delivery drivers are often tasked with completing dozens of deliveries in a single shift, which can stretch late into the evening. This leads to long hours behind the wheel, with drivers operating on minimal rest. Fatigue slows reaction times and impairs judgment, making it far more likely that a fatigued driver could cause an accident. The FMCSA has found that fatigue plays a role in roughly 13% of all accidents involving trucks, highlighting how dangerous overworked drivers can be.

Another common issue is distracted driving. Delivery drivers are often required to use navigation systems or check their mobile devices to coordinate deliveries. This frequent interaction with technology while on the road takes attention away from driving, increasing the chances of accidents. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents involving delivery trucks, especially in residential areas where sudden stops, pedestrians, and other vehicles are common.

In addition to fatigued and distracted drivers, poorly maintained delivery vehicles add to the dangers. While large trucking companies often have strict maintenance schedules, smaller delivery operations may not. This lack of maintenance can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues, all of which increase the risk of serious accidents.

Increased Traffic and Congestion

Delivery trucks are not just limited to highways and industrial zones. They are increasingly found in residential areas, where the risk to pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists is heightened. As the number of deliveries grows, so too does the congestion on already busy roads. Delivery trucks often double-park, stop suddenly, or block lanes as they make their rounds, creating dangerous conditions for other drivers who may be forced to swerve or stop unexpectedly.

Moreover, the sheer number of delivery vehicles on the road contributes to congestion, particularly during peak delivery hours. High traffic density can lead to more frequent rear-end collisions, side-swipes, and other accidents, especially in high-traffic regions like Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. With delivery services operating throughout the day and into the night, the roads are never truly free of these vehicles, amplifying the risk of accidents at all hours.

Legal and Safety Responsibilities of Delivery Companies

Like other commercial vehicles, delivery trucks are required to adhere to state and federal regulations governing driver safety, vehicle maintenance, and operational limits. Unfortunately, the race to meet customer demand often leads some companies to cut corners, either by pushing drivers to work beyond legally allowable hours or by failing to properly maintain their fleet.

When delivery trucks are involved in accidents, determining liability can be complicated. In many cases, responsibility may lie with both the driver and the company that owns the vehicle. Poor training, lack of proper oversight, and violations of federal regulations can all play a role in accidents involving delivery trucks. If an accident occurs due to a delivery company’s negligence, they can and should be held accountable for the injuries and damages they cause.

Types of Accidents Involving Delivery Trucks and Passenger Vehicles

When a delivery truck collides with a passenger car or SUV, the resulting accidents can be severe due to the size and weight of the truck compared to smaller vehicles. One common accident type is rear-end collisions, where a delivery truck fails to stop in time and crashes into the back of a car, often causing whiplash, neck, and spinal injuries for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. Side-impact collisions, or “T-bone” accidents, frequently occur at intersections when a delivery truck runs a red light or fails to yield. These crashes can lead to devastating injuries, especially if the truck strikes the side of a passenger vehicle directly where occupants are seated.

Another dangerous scenario involves a delivery truck making wide turns, often encroaching into adjacent lanes or onto sidewalks, creating hazards for nearby cars or pedestrians. Due to their height, delivery trucks are also prone to underride accidents, where a smaller vehicle becomes trapped under the truck during a collision. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, as the smaller vehicle bears the brunt of the impact.

What to Do if You Are Involved in an Accident with a Delivery Truck

If you find yourself involved in an accident with a delivery truck, the first priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Once immediate safety concerns are addressed, it’s important to document the scene, gather evidence, and seek medical attention, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Delivery truck accidents can be complex due to the involvement of large companies, independent contractors, and commercial insurance policies.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand the unique challenges of handling cases involving delivery trucks. Our team of Illinois truck accident lawyers is experienced in holding negligent delivery companies accountable for accidents caused by fatigued drivers, distracted driving, and poorly maintained vehicles. We work diligently to ensure that our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries and damages. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a delivery truck, contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the legal process and recover what you are owed.