Delivery vehicles have become a regular part of Maryland traffic. Amazon vans, FedEx trucks, and food couriers move through neighborhoods and along major roads throughout the day. More delivery vehicles on the road mean a higher chance of collisions involving them. If you have been hit by a delivery driver in Maryland, the steps you take afterward can affect both your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation.
Why Delivery Driver Accidents Can Be Different
A typical two-car accident usually involves two private drivers and their personal insurance policies. When a delivery driver hits you in Maryland, the situation often involves additional parties. The driver may be an employee of a large company, an independent contractor, or a gig worker using a personal vehicle for deliveries. Each arrangement can affect responsibility and which insurance policy applies.
Employee, Contractor, or Gig Worker?
The driver’s employment status matters. When a delivery driver is a direct employee, the employer may be responsible for damage caused during work. When the driver is an independent contractor, responsibility can become less straightforward. Gig delivery workers who rely on personal auto policies may find their coverage doesn’t apply during active deliveries. Commercial coverage may apply instead, depending on the app and when the crash happens.
Steps to Take at the Scene
Call law enforcement and seek medical attention first. After that, collecting information becomes especially important. Ask for the driver’s name, license, and insurance details. Note the company name on the vehicle, any identifying numbers, and the type of delivery being made. Photographs of the vehicle, logos, and packages can help later if there is any dispute about whether the driver was working at the time.
Preserving Evidence Early
Delivery companies often have access to GPS records, dispatch logs, and route data that can confirm a driver’s activity at the time of a crash. This information may not be available for long. An attorney can send preservation requests early to help protect access to records that might otherwise be deleted under routine retention schedules.
Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence standard. If an injured driver is found even slightly at fault, they may be barred from recovering compensation. When you have been hit by a delivery driver in Maryland, insurers may look for reasons to assign partial blame, which makes thorough investigation and clear documentation especially important.
Contact Mobley & Brown After a Delivery Driver Accident
If a delivery driver hits you in Maryland, Mobley & Brown can help you sort through the insurance and liability questions that follow. Call 410-385-0398 today to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your rights.
