Examining Delivery Driver Accidents from Both Sides
The modern mail order delivery system is nothing short of a logistical miracle. Packages and parcels from thousands of origins, private sellers, small businesses, and large corporate retailers alike, all reach their destinations through the tireless work of fulfillment professionals both in government and private sector jobs. Over the coming weeks, the holiday shopping season will give this system its sternest test of the year. The high volume of packages will have delivery drivers hustling across the communities of our area, putting down the miles to put holiday gifts onto the front porches and into the mailboxes of the DMV region. As with any professionals under extraordinary stress, mistakes are inevitable. Today’s Malloy Law Offices blog post will examine the issue of delivery driver accidents. We’ll explore the perspectives and options available both to the drivers themselves and the unfortunate motorists involved in an accident with a delivery driver.
Delivery Driver Accidents and Worker’s Comp
While other options to pursue compensation may be available to delivery drivers injured while on the clock, the most expedient and simple path to relieving the financial stresses of a serious injury is through a worker’s compensation claim. If you are a driver for UPS, FedEx, or the US Postal Service, then you’re likely intimately familiar with this insurance system which allows injured workers to receive partial compensation while recovering from injuries suffered on the job.
Workers’ Compensation may be able to help if you’ve suffered injuries while on the job such as:
- A vehicle collision
- A dog bite
- A slip and fall or trip and fall
- An injury related to lifting heavy packages
If you suffer any of these, or any other workplace injury, promptly reporting the injury to your supervisor is the best way to ensure a smooth passage through the process. Consulting with a worker’s compensation lawyer, such as those at Malloy Law Offices, can also expedite the compensation process.
An Amazon Exception?
In a previous edition of this blog, we covered the issue of Amazon delivery drivers extensively. In short; Amazon’s commitment to efficiency over all else can lead to a disregard for public safety. Since 2018, Amazon has decentralized their delivery apparatus, employing many smaller companies to handle Amazon deliveries. This means that not only can it be difficult for motorists injured by Amazon delivery drivers to seek compensation from Amazon itself, but it may also mean a lower level of protection for the drivers themselves.
One exception to workers’ compensation comes in the form of so-called “independent contractors.” Under Maryland Law, businesses are not required to provide workers’ compensation benefits to independent contractors. However, workers can purchses insurance for themselves on an individual basis. Knowing what category of employee you are can prevent unpleasant surprises in the wake of a workplace injury. This advice applies regardless of your line of work.
If You’ve Been Involved in a Car Accident With a Delivery Driver
Your health and safety come first if you have been in any form of car or truck accident. If you think something is wrong, don’t be afraid to get medical help. There are a few things you can do immediately following delivery driver accidents once you’ve addressed steps to safeguard your health.
- Obtain a police report by dialing 911.
- If at all feasible, pull your car out of the line of traffic.
- Any more drivers involved in the collision should exchange insurance and contact details.
- Obtain the company’s name and contact details for the delivery driver.
- Capture images of the scene.
- If at all feasible, get statements from every witness.
By following these guidelines, you may make sure that your post-accident insurance claim has the best possible foundation. It will also be very helpful if you want to file a personal injury lawsuit.
How Malloy Law Can Help
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident involving a delivery truck, Malloy Law can help. Whether you’re seeking damages from a reckless motorist or simply looking for guidance through the worker’s compensation process, our experienced team can guide you through your unique situation and craft a plan of action. We’ll fight for compensation on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Don’t wait, contact Malloy Law today and let’s win your case.
