DHL Express Truck Accidents
Get an experienced trucking litigation attorney on your side
DHL Express delivers millions of packages in the United States every year, and their trucks can be seen frequently on highways and other roads. A truck accident involving one of these vehicles can leave people with very serious and possibly life-changing injuries. If DHL Express or one of their drivers was negligent, they need to be held accountable.
At Fried Goldberg LLC, our attorneys understand the impact a serious injury can have on victims and their families. Our firm focuses the majority of our caseload on trucking litigation and are known nationwide for our work. We have delivered substantial results for our clients through verdicts and settlements.
For live statistics on the number of accidents and injuries associated with DHL Express trucks, see the interactive map on our Safety Statistics page.
Company snapshot
Founded in San Francisco in 1969, DHL Express is now a German logistics corporation and one of the largest shipping companies in the world. In the U.S., DHL Express primarily employs independent contractors for ground deliveries.
What to do after an accident with a DHL Express Truck
When a DHL Express truck hits your car, there are two things you should do right away to ensure the integrity of your accident claim.
First, seek medical care. Commercial truck accidents usually cause severe and life-threatening injuries. However, it is still necessary to seek medical attention for minor injuries. Adrenaline can mask serious symptoms of head trauma and internal organ damage.
Having a medical record of your injuries is critical to your claim. Trucking and insurance companies often seek ways to minimize any litigation or financial responsibility. Seeking medical attention can help preserve evidence.
Second, talk to an attorney. Having a lawyer there to protect your rights can keep the other side from taking advantage of you while you’re in pain or in crisis. For example, signing or verbally agreeing to a statement or settlement without representation can hurt your claim. Your lawyer will review and evaluate any such offers on your behalf, and block any intimidation tactics the opposing counsel may deploy.
Our experienced truck accident attorneys are familiar with complex litigation involving medical injuries. We will investigate your claim and negotiate the settlement you deserve.
DHL Express Accidents FAQ
- How is fault determined after a DHL Express truck accident?
- Are DHL Express truck drivers responsible for damages?
- How long does it take to settle a DHL Express commercial truck accident lawsuit?
- How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a DHL Express truck accident?
What types of damages can I recover in a DHL accident?
Large trucks and tractor-trailers outweigh the average passenger car by thousands of pounds. Injuries in a DHL Express truck accident tend to be severe or life-altering, leading to a significantly higher financial stake in damages.
A DHL Express injury lawsuit could help cover:
- Medical bills: Emergency treatment and follow-up care
- Lost wages: Time missed from work, lost advancement opportunities, or lost benefits (like health insurance)
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and psychological anguish
- Punitive damages: Fees charged to the liable party as punishment in certain cases that can then be awarded to you
- Wrongful death damages: For families who’ve lost a loved one, a wrongful death suit can help with end-of-life expenses and also provide compensation for the loss of a person’s unique companionship and support.
You deserve full compensation. Our industry-leading truck accident lawyers can determine the total amount of damages you suffered and fight for just compensation. We have recovered multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in nearly every state.
What is the average settlement in a truck accident case against DHL Express?
The average settlement in a truck accident case against DHL Express can vary widely. Every accident has a unique set of circumstances that will affect the value of a claim.
Our firm has a long history of recovering higher-than-expected results for our clients, including:
- A $52 million settlement for a teenager who suffered a major brain injury after a commercial truck ran a stop sign
- A $31 million settlement for the wrongful death of two children and an adult after being rear-ended by a large truck
- A $20 million settlement for a woman who sustained severe fracture injuries due to a truck wheel coming off and hitting her car head-on
Are DHL Express drivers insured?
DHL Express drivers do not work directly for the company. Instead, DHL Express outsources its delivery drivers and trucks to third parties. All truck drivers are required to carry insurance. However, every state has different liability coverage minimums.
Why do I need a DHL Express truck accident lawyer?
Unfortunately, when an independent driver for DHL Express causes a serious collision, that separation between driver and trucking company can be challenging to pin down responsibility and file a claim.
Making a claim against DHL is complex. DHL is based in Germany and usually employs independent contractors for their logistics needs in the U.S. Having an experienced attorney familiar with DHL Express claims is crucial.
At Fried Goldberg, we can navigate the various complications of third-party claims and hold all liable parties accountable. In some instances, both DHL Express and a third party may be responsible.
Schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney
Our firm is nationally recognized as a top truck accident litigation firm. Our truck accident trial lawyers revolutionized the way truck accident cases are handled, and we instruct attorneys all over the country in truck accident law by giving seminars and serving as co-counsel. Other firms frequently request our services as lead counsel.
If you were hurt in an accident involving a DHL Express truck, we can help. One of our attorneys can review the details of what happened and go over your legal options for recovering compensation. We can also answer any questions you have. There is not cost and no obligation.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We look forward to hearing from you.
How is fault determined after a DHL Express truck accident?
After a DHL Express truck accident, fault is determined by examining:
- The police report: Law enforcement will investigate the scene, speak to drivers and passengers, and interview witnesses to establish if one or both parties are at-fault.
- Physical evidence: Physical evidence can include damage to the vehicles, medical records demonstrating the severity of injuries, tire tracks, and any footage of the accident caught on camera.
- The truck’s records and logs: Truck drivers must abide by state and federal laws that dictate operating hours, maintenance requirements, inspections, and much more. Truck drivers and companies are required to keep detailed logs and data to ensure safety standards are met.
While there are many factors that determine fault, the police report, physical evidence, and documentary proof carry the most influence.
Are DHL Express truck drivers responsible for damages?
Yes, truck drivers may be held responsible if they are at fault for the accident. Their employers may also be at fault if the truck driver was improperly trained or overworked. The truck maintenance company may also be at fault if the accident was the result of mechanical failure.
DHL Express truck accidents can be especially complex. The company is based in Germany and employs independent contractors to drive a truck with its logo. Depending on the circumstances, either the independent contractor or DHL Express (or both) may be held liable.
How long does it take to settle a DHL Express commercial truck accident lawsuit?
It depends on the circumstances of the truck accident. Every truck accident claim is unique, requiring special care and attention to detail.
A skilled truck accident lawyer can examine the details of your case and estimate the value based on your injuries and the damage sustained. In some cases, when a trucking company refuses to offer a fair settlement, damages ordered at trial can be more than expected. Judges may add more punitive damages, that is, compensation awarded to punish extreme wrongdoing.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a DHL Express truck accident?
Every state has its own statute of limitations for truck accidents. The time limit is legally referred to as the statute of limitations.
In Georgia, where our law firm is headquartered, truck accident victims have two years to file civil action from the date of the collision. Regardless of your state, it is crucial to retain experienced representation as soon as possible.