DHL, also known as Dalsey, Hillblom, and Lynn International GmbH, is a German parcel service that began in the United States and has expanded throughout the world. While the facts about DHL are impressive, the company’s drivers are still human—and they can make mistakes. If you or a loved one were hit by a DHL truck in Johns Creek, you need to know your legal options.
A truck accident can leave you with serious injuries, bad vehicle damage, and emotional suffering. You might not know where to turn first, which is where our lawyers can help. We have been helping accident victims win what they deserve for over 20 years, and we’re not afraid to fight for your rights.
Contact us today to learn your options during a free consultation. We’ll review your accident and answer any questions. If you work with us, there is no fee unless we win you money. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Why DHL Truck Accidents Happen
DHL has a reputation as one of the safest companies, but that doesn’t mean accidents don’t happen. Collisions usually occur because of driver or employee error in the process.
If the company causes an accident, it is responsible for covering the damages. However, you’ll need to know how the accident happened before filing a claim. Investigation can tell you a lot about who was responsible for the crash and your injuries.
Here are some of the most common reasons DHL truck accidents occur.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers might juggle several things at once while on the job, such as:
- GPS navigation
- Texting or phone calls
- Listening to music
- Thinking about the next delivery
Distracted driving is common with any driver in Johns Creek, but it’s especially likely for truck drivers. Delivery drivers must be careful to avoid distractions. Otherwise, they can cause an accident at any moment.
Speeding
DHL drivers often have strict deadlines to meet. Package deliveries are more common than ever, and that can lead to a lot of on-the-job pressure.
A driver might speed in an effort to make deliveries faster. Unfortunately, speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents.
Fatigued Driving
Strict work schedules can easily lead to driver fatigue. Truck drivers often suffer from a lack of rest that can lead to unsafe driving choices. If a driver doesn’t take enough breaks, or their employer discourages breaks, it can lead to an accident.
Driving Under the Influence
Drivers might abuse drugs or alcohol while working. Companies like DHL should have strict guidelines to prevent substance abuse, but drivers might fail to comply. Drunk or drugged driving often leads to catastrophic accidents.
Driver negligence is a leading cause of DHL truck accidents. However, there are other common reasons for this type of accident, such as:
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Incorrectly-loaded cargo
- Defective truck parts
- Improper driver training
- Poor road or weather conditions
The DHL company, a government agency, or another driver on the road could be at fault. According to Georgia’s comparative fault laws under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §51-12-33, more than one party might be partially at fault. That means you could file several injury claims for compensation.
You will probably need to investigate the accident thoroughly. Commercial truck accidents have a lot of moving parts. If fault is unclear, you’ll need to determine who is responsible for the losses you’ve suffered.
Our Johns Creek DHL truck accident lawyers can help. At John Foy & Associates, we know what it takes to gather evidence and file a strong claim. To discuss the details during a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Get the strong arm
Gathering Evidence for Your Claim
There are ways you can start building your case as soon as possible. Here are some steps to take to gather evidence:
- Take pictures of your injuries, vehicle damage, and the entire accident scene.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the DHL truck driver.
- Report the accident to the police. Get a copy of the accident report.
- Talk to any eyewitnesses at the scene. Ask for their names and contact information.
- Keep track of all medical bills and other documents from your costs.
Also, see a doctor as quickly as possible after your accident. You’ll need to know the full extent of your injuries and treatment needs. This will help you determine your current and future medical treatment costs.
An experienced DHL truck accident lawyer can help with all of the above. They’ll also know how to fight for the compensation you deserve. Without a lawyer on your side, it’s challenging to get a fair offer for the money you actually need.
What to Do If You Get a Lowball Settlement Offer
After the accident, you can probably file a claim with the company’s insurance company for compensation. However, the insurance company will look for ways to pay you as little as possible. If you wait to gather evidence from the accident, it will make it harder to get the fair settlement offer that you deserve.
Common insurance company tactics include:
- Offering a lowball settlement upfront
- Downplaying your injuries and damages
- Blaming you for at least part of the accident
- Making you feel like you don’t need a lawyer
If the insurance company contacts you, be wary. Don’t accept any settlement or sign anything without talking to a lawyer first. If you accept any money, it will close your case, meaning you won’t be able to fight for more compensation.
The first settlement offer is never enough to cover your costs. Before agreeing to anything, schedule a free consultation with a lawyer to explore your options.
Talk to a Johns Creek DHL Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Don’t wait to get legal help after a DHL truck accident. At John Foy & Associates, we can help you get started today at no risk or obligation. Our team has over 20 years of experience, so you can know you’re working with experienced professionals.
We do not collect a fee unless we win your case. Plus, the consultation is 100% free. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started with your free consultation.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form