Even before the pandemic, online shopping caused an influx of delivery fans onto Maryland streets. Back in 2016, one study found that 60% of all Baltimore residents chose Amazon when shopping online. According to Census.gov, e-commerce sales skyrocketed during the pandemic – and they show no signs of declining. The end result—More delivery vans on our roads. Several recent incidents show that these vans can become involved in truly worrying crashes.
Amazon Van Carjacked and Crashed
One of the most dangerous aspects of Amazon vans is not necessarily their tendency to rush and drive recklessly, but rather their potential to be targeted by criminals. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that an Amazon van is filled with all kinds of valuables, and this has led to an increase in Amazon van carjackings. These crimes inevitably lead to police pursuits – putting the entire community at risk.
One such incident was reported on November 14, 2023, and it involved an Amazon van being carjacked in D.C. It was then chased by police between D.C. and Maryland before crashing. Police say that shots were fired during the pursuit, although they did not reveal who was firing. Miraculously, no one was seriously injured.
UPS Van Carjacked in Broad Daylight
On November 12, 2023, it was reported that a UPS driver had been carjacked at gunpoint in broad daylight. The incident occurred in Glenarden, Maryland, and it put the entire neighborhood at risk. The thieves then sped off into the distance, dumping the UPS van a short distance away. During this escape, the van could have easily struck children and other pedestrians in the quiet, suburban neighborhood. After the incident, police reported that no arrests had been made.
Child Struck by FedEx Van in Montgomery County
On November 20, 2023, it was reported that a child had been struck by a FedEx van in Montgomery County. The 6-year-old apparently dashed into the road after dismissal from school and suffered “minor injuries” according to first responders. The FedEx driver initially kept driving, but he returned moments later and cooperated with authorities. Police did not announce any criminal charges, although the crash is still under investigation.
Where Can I Find a Qualified, Experienced Personal Injury Attorney in Baltimore?
If you have been injured due to a delivery van crash in Baltimore, consider contacting a Baltimore car accident attorney. Choose Furman Honick Law, book a consultation, and discuss the most appropriate course of action. Although damages related to delivery van crashes can be quite severe, it may be possible to pursue compensation from the company behind the delivery van that caused your injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured by a delivery truck or van crash, call Furman Honick Law today and speak with a partner for a free case evaluation.
Sources:
observationbaltimore.com/blog/more-baltimore-consumers-are-opting-for-online-shopping/
census.gov/library/stories/2022/04/ecommerce-sales-surged-during-pandemic.html
nbcwashington.com/news/local/amazon-delivery-van-carjacked-in-dc-pursuit-ends-in-crash-in-prince-georges-county/3470932/
patch.com/maryland/silverspring/child-injured-after-being-hit-fedex-truck-montgomery-co-report