How Common Are Accidents with UPS Trucks?

You may only think of UPS when a driver shows up at your door with the packages you ordered. You're not the only one getting more deliveries. The huge increase in online shopping has made UPS trucks more of a presence on our roads.

They're also more of a menace, often leading to serious accidents. When drivers are forced to meet delivery deadlines, are distracted, or lack proper training, the results could be deadly. But how common are accidents with UPS trucks? The answer is more alarming than you may realize.

Accident Statistics for UPS Trucks

The data compiled by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for UPS sheds some light on how common these crashes are on the roads today. For the year 2021, there were almost 135,000 UPS trucks on the road. In a 24-month span prior to November 2021, UPS trucks were involved in 2,865 crashes.

Of those UPS truck accidents, 1,020 resulted in injuries while 69 of them were fatal. In all, 60% of these UPS truck crashes were so severe that the vehicles needed to be towed. The FMCSA also notes that the drivers for UPS received 2,272 unsafe driving violations during this same time span.

Are UPS Trucks Safe?

UPS trucks aren't inherently different than any other delivery truck. Since most of these truck accidents are due to driver error, it really depends on who is behind the wheel. It helps that UPS has its own strict rules and protocols that drivers must obey. However, even with these measures in place, accidents still occur.

UPS requires its drivers to spend hours in a classroom followed by hours on the road to train for the job. They must complete three safety evaluations during their first month as a new driver. This goes beyond the normal required licenses to drive a commercial vehicle. If the driver gets into a crash that could have been prevented, they are required to take an additional training course and receive disciplinary actions.

One thing to note about UPS is that it provides specific routes to its drivers to minimize left turns. Left-hand turns are far more dangerous and lead to accidents. Financially, this practice also saves gas, too. Still, even a company that is committed to making things as safe as possible is going to have accidents-no matter how much they prepare.

What You Should Do After an Accident with a UPS Truck

Getting into an accident is scary. When a UPS truck hits you, the damages will be more extensive. You should get immediate medical treatment and try to collect as much evidence as you can. Focus on your injuries, though. With the help of UPS accident attorneys, they can get to work on your case immediately.

Working with an attorney allows you to take the time you need to heal from your injuries. They will ensure that UPS provides a fair settlement to cover your damages and keep negotiating until things are made right. 

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