If you’re reading this, you’re likely shaken and frustrated — a UPS truck hit my car. Whether it happened while parked or during traffic, dealing with a commercial vehicle accident can be stressful and confusing. You might wonder who’s responsible, how to report it, and whether UPS will pay for the damage.
In this article, we’ll walk you step-by-step through what to do after a UPS truck hits your car, how to file a claim with UPS, and how to make sure you get fair compensation for your losses.
Read too: Top Trucking Companies That Still Have Manual Transmissions
What To Do Immediately After a UPS Truck Hits Your Car
Accidents involving delivery trucks, especially from large companies like UPS, require a calm but strategic response. Here’s what you should do right away:
1. Ensure Safety First
- Move your vehicle to a safe area if possible.
- Turn on hazard lights and call 911 if anyone is injured.
- Stay out of active traffic lanes.
2. Call the Police
Even if the damage seems minor, you need an official police report. It’s essential evidence for any insurance or UPS claim later on.
3. Gather Information
Take photos and collect all the following:
- UPS truck license plate number
- Driver’s name and employee ID (from their badge)
- UPS truck number (usually printed on the side)
- Contact info of any witnesses
- Time, date, and exact location of the accident
4. Document the Scene
Use your phone to capture:
- Vehicle damage (both cars)
- Skid marks, street signs, and traffic lights
- Weather and visibility conditions
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t rely solely on the UPS driver’s report — take your own evidence.
Who Is Liable When a UPS Truck Hits Your Car?
When a UPS driver hits your vehicle, liability usually depends on who was at fault and whether the driver was on duty.
If the UPS Driver Was On Duty:
UPS, as a corporation, is likely responsible for damages under respondeat superior — a legal principle where employers are liable for employee actions performed during work.
If the Driver Was Off Duty:
The driver’s personal insurance may cover damages instead of UPS.
In both cases, the police report and witness statements play a huge role in determining fault.
How To File a Claim Against UPS
If a UPS truck hit your car, you can file a claim directly through UPS’s claims department.
Here’s a step-by-step process:
1. Contact UPS Claims Department
- Visit the official site: UPS Claims Portal
- Or call 1-800-PICK-UPS (1-800-742-5877).
2. Provide Key Details
You’ll need to include:
- Date and location of the accident
- Police report number
- Photos of damage
- Your insurance details
- Estimate of repair costs
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
Your own insurance provider must also be notified — they’ll help coordinate with UPS’s liability carrier and may offer a rental car or repairs upfront.
4. Keep a Record of Everything
Maintain emails, claim reference numbers, and all correspondence with UPS or their insurance adjuster.
⚠️ Note: UPS uses a third-party claims service for accidents involving company vehicles. Always verify the claim handler’s legitimacy before sharing sensitive information.
How Long Does It Take To Settle a UPS Accident Claim?
UPS claims typically take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on:
- Severity of damage
- Whether injuries are involved
- Cooperation between both insurance companies
If liability is clear and documentation is strong, some minor claims resolve in under 30 days.
Common Issues Victims Face
| Problem | Description | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| UPS denies fault | Driver disputes responsibility | Use police report and photos as proof |
| Delayed claim | Slow UPS response | Follow up weekly and escalate if needed |
| Repair delays | Insurance waiting for UPS confirmation | Request a written update every 5 business days |
| Low compensation | Offer doesn’t cover full damage | Get multiple repair estimates and contest |
Should I Hire a Lawyer If a UPS Truck Hit My Car?
If injuries, property loss, or emotional distress are involved — yes.
A personal injury attorney can:
- Handle communication with UPS insurance
- Negotiate fair compensation
- File a lawsuit if UPS refuses to pay
💬 “Corporations like UPS have strong legal teams, so having your own legal advocate levels the playing field,” says attorney Michael S. Becker, accident law expert (Los Angeles).
UPS Accident Claim vs. Personal Car Insurance Claim
| Feature | UPS Claim | Personal Insurance Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Liability | UPS covers if driver on duty | Your insurer covers, may subrogate later |
| Deductible | None if UPS accepts fault | You might pay, later reimbursed |
| Processing time | Slower (corporate process) | Faster (direct claim) |
| Best for | Commercial fault cases | Minor damage or unclear liability |
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If a UPS truck hit your car, you might be eligible for compensation covering:
- 🚗 Vehicle repairs or replacement
- 🩹 Medical bills & therapy
- 💼 Lost wages (if unable to work)
- 💔 Pain and suffering damages
For severe cases, settlements can reach $25,000–$100,000+, depending on evidence and injury severity (source: NHTSA accident data 2024).
How To Strengthen Your UPS Claim
- Act fast – report the incident within 24 hours.
- Keep documentation organized – invoices, medical records, repair quotes.
- Stay professional – don’t post angry social media rants (they can hurt your case).
- Follow up regularly – persistence shows you’re serious.
FAQ – Common Questions About “UPS Truck Hit My Car”
1. Will UPS pay for my damages?
If the UPS driver was at fault while on duty, UPS (or their insurer) is responsible for covering your damages.
2. What if the driver fled the scene?
Call the police immediately and report a hit-and-run. UPS vehicles are GPS-tracked, so law enforcement can usually locate the truck quickly.
3. How much can I claim from UPS?
It depends on repair costs, injuries, and lost wages. Minor property claims may range from $2,000–$10,000.
4. Can I file a claim without a lawyer?
Yes, but for major injuries or disputes, hiring an attorney ensures you get fair compensation.
5. Does UPS have insurance for accidents?
Yes, UPS maintains commercial liability insurance, which covers bodily injury and property damage caused by their vehicles.
6. What if my parked car was hit by a UPS truck?
Treat it the same way — file a police report, gather evidence, and contact UPS’s claims department with photos and details.
Conclusion
If you’ve been in a situation where a UPS truck hit your car, remember: stay calm, gather evidence, report immediately, and protect your rights. UPS has insurance for these incidents, but getting compensated often requires persistence and proper documentation.
When in doubt, speak with a personal injury attorney to maximize your settlement and ensure UPS handles your claim fairly.
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