The holiday season is the busiest time of year for Amazon and other delivery services, as millions of packages are shipped all over the country. With tight deadlines and increased pressure to deliver promptly, some delivery drivers may cut corners or rush, increasing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists, other vehicles and property damage.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with an Amazon delivery vehicle or driver this holiday season, you may have legal options. Here are some tips on how to proceed if you are considering making a claim.
Gather Evidence from the Accident Scene
If you can safely do so, collect as much evidence as possible from the accident scene. Take photos of any property damage, skid marks, dangerous road conditions or other relevant details. Get contact information for any witnesses who saw the accident occur. If the police respond, request a copy of the accident report. All of this can help prove liability later if you decide to pursue compensation.
Seek Any Necessary Medical Care
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, get evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. Adrenaline and shock can mask serious injuries, and some symptoms may not appear until hours or days later. Getting prompt medical attention creates a record of your condition and treatment and can prevent small injuries from becoming worse. Make sure to follow all doctor’s orders for medications, therapy or other care. Keep track of all accident-related medical expenses and records.
Document Your Injuries
In addition to medical records, keep your own detailed log of how the accident injuries affect your daily life. Note any pain, limitations to your regular activities, lost wages from missed work and other ways you are impacted. Take photos or video of any visible injuries like cuts, scrapes or bruises over the course of your recovery. These details are crucial for demonstrating the full effects of the accident in a potential injury claim.
Do Not Communicate with the Delivery Company
Beyond exchanging insurance information at the scene, do not initiate contact with the delivery company or driver who caused the accident. Be cautious about what you say in the immediate aftermath, as it may be used against you later. Polite cooperation is fine but avoid speculating about what happened or admitting any fault. Let your attorney handle communications with the company’s insurance adjusters or legal team moving forward.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Experienced personal injury lawyers understand how to build a strong claim for compensation after delivery truck accidents. An attorney can conduct a thorough investigation, estimate the full value of your damages, negotiate skillfully with insurance companies and file a lawsuit if necessary. They can also advise you on practical matters, like dealing with car repairs or lost wages while recovering.
Types of Compensation Available
There are various damages you may be eligible to recover through a personal injury claim or lawsuit:
- Medical expenses from accident injuries, including hospital bills, medications, therapy and more
- Lost income due to missing work during recovery
- Property damage like repairs to your vehicle, bicycle or other belongings
- Pain and suffering damages for physical and emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life if injuries limit your regular activities
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or reckless behavior
Common Causes of Delivery Truck Accidents
During the hectic holiday season, some frequent factors that contribute to Amazon and other delivery truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue from long hours and increased workload
- Speeding or aggressive driving to meet tight deadlines
- Distracted driving like talking on a cell phone or looking at a scanner
- Failure to yield right of way to pedestrians or other vehicles
- Poor maintenance leading to equipment defects or tire blowouts
- Dangerous backing up in crowded parking lots and driveways
- Blocking sight lines due to piles of packages obstructing windows
Holiday Hazards to Watch For
Pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists should be extra cautious around delivery trucks during the hazardous holiday conditions too. Watch for dangers like:
- Slippery roads and reduced visibility in winter weather
- More vehicles and foot traffic around malls, shopping centers, etc.
- Darkness falling earlier in the evening rush hours
- Drivers hurrying to make it to holiday gatherings with family
- Unclear parking lot lanes and unlit entrances at night
- Children on new bicycles or other gifts outside playing
Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights
The risks to pedestrians and other motorists rise significantly during the hectic holiday delivery rush each year. But if you are injured in an Amazon truck accident, understanding your legal rights can help you secure fair compensation. Speak to a personal injury lawyer for tailored legal advice applicable in your state.
For a free consultation on your delivery truck accident claim, contact the experienced attorneys at Monge & Associates. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Georgia, Florida, and Kansas, we have local lawyers ready to help get you the compensation you deserve. Call us at (888) 477-0597 today.