Who Can Be Held Liable in a GrubHub Driver Accident?
The Driver
If a GrubHub driver acted negligently—such as speeding or distracted driving—they can be held personally responsible for an accident. As independent contractors, drivers usually need their own auto insurance, but personal policies may not cover accidents during commercial activities, complicating claims. Our team will investigate the driver’s negligence and ensure the right claims are filed.
GrubHub
Although GrubHub drivers are classified as independent contractors, there are circumstances where the company itself may share liability. For instance:
- Insurance Coverage During Deliveries: GrubHub provides limited insurance coverage for drivers while they are actively making deliveries. If the driver’s personal insurance is insufficient, GrubHub’s policy may apply.
- Unsafe Policies or Practices: If GrubHub’s operational policies, such as strict delivery deadlines or inadequate screening processes, contribute to reckless driving, the company may bear partial responsibility.
- Failure to Address Known Risks: If GrubHub was aware of previous safety complaints or violations involving the driver and allowed them to continue working, the company’s negligence may also be a factor.
Proving corporate liability often involves gathering evidence such as company records, policies, and prior complaints to demonstrate how GrubHub’s actions (or inaction) contributed to the accident.
Other Parties
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defect in the GrubHub driver’s vehicle—such as faulty brakes or airbags—contributed to the accident, the manufacturer or distributor of the defective part may be held liable under product liability law.
- Third-Party Employers: In some cases, delivery drivers may work for third-party logistics companies contracted by GrubHub. If the driver was operating under such an arrangement, the logistics company may share responsibility for failing to properly train, monitor, or vet the driver.
- Other Drivers: If another driver on the road contributed to the accident, they may also share liability.