Ohio FedEx Truck Accident Lawyer

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FedEx Injuries

Were you hit by a FedEx truck in Ohio? If so, you’re likely dealing with serious injuries, a growing pile of medical bills, and the stress of not knowing what to do next. Facing a big company like FedEx on your own can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, you don’t have to.

At Oliver Law Office, our truck accident lawyers are here to build a strong claim on your behalf, stand up to FedEx’s legal team, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward. Call us today at (614) 220-9100 for a free consultation to learn more about how we help during this challenging time.

Accident Risk Factors Among FedEx Drivers

Accident risk among FedEx drivers has become a growing concern in recent years. Delivery drivers face a range of both industry-wide challenges and safety issues specific to FedEx that have led to a noticeable increase in accidents. One major issue is the high turnover rate among drivers, especially in the FedEx Ground unit. New drivers, who often have little experience, are more likely to be involved in accidents. Studies show drivers with more experience tend to be safer, but FedEx’s network of delivery contractors struggles to retain drivers long enough to gain that experience.

Low wages are a significant contributor to this high turnover. FedEx Ground drivers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, much lower than the pay available from competing delivery companies. For instance, the agreement UPS recently negotiated with its drivers will pay them up to $ 49 per hour. This pay gap makes it harder for FedEx contractors to keep their best drivers, who often move to better-paying jobs, increasing the risk of accidents caused by newer, less-experienced workers.
FedEx has also increased pressure on contractors to meet ever-more difficult delivery demands. Expanding services like Sunday deliveries and heavier packages have placed more strain on drivers, who are already stretched thin. These added responsibilities can lead to fatigue and stress, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
While FedEx has introduced technology like cameras, sensors, and AI to monitor driver behavior and improve safety, the underlying issues of low wages and high turnover remain. Until FedEx addresses these problems from the top, its drivers will likely continue to put everyone else on the road at risk.

Steps to Take After a FedEx Accident

If you suffer injuries in a FedEx accident, taking the right steps can make a big difference in protecting your health and your ability to file a claim. Below are some important steps you should take immediately after the wreck:
  • Seek medical attention. Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, see a doctor to check for and document any hidden injuries. Medical records will be key in proving your case later on.
  • Document the scene. Take photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. If any witnesses saw the crash, ask for their names and contact details.
  • Exchange information with the FedEx driver. Get the driver’s name, license plate, and insurance details. Take note of the truck number and other identifying information about the vehicle.
  • Save all accident-related receipts. Keep copies of medical bills, repair costs, transportation expenses, and any other costs related to the accident. If your injuries force you to miss work, record the days you missed and any loss of wages.
  • Notify your insurance company. Tell your insurance provider about the accident promptly, but watch what you say when speaking to them. Stick to the facts and avoid guessing. Do not accept any offers or agree to provide a recorded statement before speaking with your lawyer.
  • Consult a lawyer before speaking to FedEx or its insurer. Be sure to talk to a lawyer before you discuss the accident with FedEx’s insurance department. They can protect your rights and prevent you from making a mistake that could jeopardize your case.

Securing Fair Compensation After a FedEx Accident

FedEx accident claims are far more challenging than other types of accident claims for numerous reasons. Here are some factors that can complicate the process of securing fair compensation after a FedEx accident in Ohio:
  • Liability Disputes: To start, FedEx will likely argue that its driver was not at fault for the accident. FedEx might claim that another driver, the road conditions, or even your actions were the main cause of the crash. You will need clear and convincing evidence like eyewitness testimony, video footage, or expert analysis to prove that the FedEx driver was responsible. Without solid proof, FedEx might shift the blame to you and reduce or eliminate its responsibility to pay for your losses, leaving you struggling to cover everything out of pocket.
  • Contractor vs. Employee Status: Many FedEx drivers work for independent contractors, not as employees of FedEx itself, which can make liability unclear after an accident. If an accident involves a contractor, FedEx might attempt to shift blame onto them. This distinction can add extra steps to the claims process, as you might need to file claims against both the contractor and FedEx. Sorting out who is responsible is often time-consuming and legally complex, which can slow down the compensation process and limit the total payout you receive.
  • Insurance Complications: FedEx Ground drivers work for independent contractors, not for FedEx itself, which can make it harder to determine whose insurance covers a given accident. Additionally, dealing with multiple insurance companies—FedEx’s insurance department, the contractor’s insurer, and even your own—can lead to delays and disputes over who pays for what.
  • FedEx’s Resources: As a large corporation, FedEx has the advantage of considerable financial and legal resources. After an accident, FedEx can quickly mobilize a team of lawyers, investigators, and insurance adjusters to minimize its liability. These professionals act swiftly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a case in FedEx’s favor. They might even attempt to settle with you before you fully understand the extent of your injuries. The speed and expertise of FedEx’s team can put you at a disadvantage if you don’t have experienced representation.

Common Injuries from FedEx Vehicle Accidents

Accidents involving FedEx vehicles can result in a wide range of injuries, depending on the nature and severity of the crash. Here are some possible injuries that can result from these types of accidents:
  • Whiplash
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Fractures
  • Dislocations
  • Internal injuries
  • Lacerations
  • Burns
  • Face and eye injuries
  • Dental injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Severe bruising
  • Amputations
  • Psychological trauma

Compensation Available After a FedEx Accident

If you suffer harm in an accident involving a FedEx vehicle, you could be entitled to various types of compensation for the losses you have suffered. This could include compensation for:
  • The costs of any medical care you need to treat your injuries
  • Future medical bills you will likely incur due to your crash injuries
  • Income losses from any time you miss at work during your recovery
  • Projected losses in your future earning capacity
  • Subjective losses like pain, suffering, and lost quality or enjoyment of life

Contact a FedEx Accident Attorney Now

FedEx and its contractors will have experienced legal teams working to protect their interests after an accident, so having your own legal representation in a FedEx accident claim is essential. At Oliver Law Office, we know the tactics FedEx and its insurers use, and we’re prepared to stand up for you. Call us today at (614) 220-9100 for a free consultation, and let’s talk about how our personal injury lawyers can secure the financial recovery you deserve.

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JAMI S. OLIVER

When Jami Oliver launched her own firm in 2000, she did so with one simple idea in mind: to seek justice for those who have been hurt, injured, or wronged due to the negligence of others. While she’s won numerous awards and accolades in the years since, her philosophy hasn’t changed. If you need an attorney who can advocate for you after an accident, product recall, or other tragedy, the Oliver Law Office should be your first choice.