Commercial Vehicle Accidents: Delivery Vans, Company Trucks, and Employer Liability

Commercial Vehicles · Liz Valdez Garza · 2026-10-13

Delivery vans, utility trucks, contractor pickups and service vehicles are everywhere in the Valley. When a driver working for a company causes a crash, your claim may not be limited to the driver. The company itself may be responsible.

When an employer is responsible for its driver

Under a legal principle often called respondeat superior, an employer can be held responsible for the negligence of an employee acting within the course and scope of their job. If a delivery driver runs a red light while on their route, the company may be liable for the crash.

Questions that matter include whether the driver was an employee or an independent contractor, and whether they were doing work for the company at the time.

Direct negligence by the company

A company can also be responsible for its own mistakes, such as:

• Negligent hiring — hiring a driver with a poor driving record
• Negligent entrustment — giving a vehicle to someone the company knew or should have known was unsafe
• Poor training or supervision
• Failing to maintain vehicles — worn brakes, bald tires, broken lights
• Unrealistic delivery schedules that push drivers to speed

Why it matters

Commercial vehicles usually carry business auto policies with higher limits than personal policies. When injuries are serious, identifying the company and its insurance can make the difference between a recovery that covers your losses and one that doesn't.

Evidence to gather

• The company name and any vehicle or DOT numbers on the van or truck
• Photos of the vehicle and its markings
• Witness information
• Dash cam or telematics data — many fleets track speed and location
• Delivery logs and driver schedules

Telematics and video can be overwritten, so it's important to request preservation early.

Don't let the company's insurer rush you

Commercial insurers handle claims every day. They may contact you quickly with an offer. Get advice before giving a statement or signing anything.

If you were hurt and have questions, Attorney Liz Valdez Garza can help. Call 866-LA-LEONA for a free consultation, or use the case review form on this page. Hablamos español.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue the company if its delivery driver hit me?

Often, yes. An employer can be responsible for an employee's negligence while working, and for its own negligence in hiring, training or maintaining vehicles.

What if the driver is an independent contractor?

It can change the analysis, but the company may still be responsible in some situations. The facts and contracts matter.

Valdez Garza Law Firm, P.C. · 1105 East 6th Street, Brownsville, TX 78520 · 866-LA-LEONA (866) 525-3662