Being injured in an accident involving an Amazon delivery truck can lead to a complex legal situation. Given Amazon’s vast delivery network and the company’s use of independent contractors for delivery services, if you’ve been injured in such a collision, your situation could quickly become for more complex than the aftermath of a “traditional” wreck.
Understanding your legal options is important, as this knowledge – and your approach in light of it – can significantly impact your ability to secure compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.
Liability and legal options
Determining liability in accidents involving Amazon delivery trucks can be a complicated undertaking. Amazon has historically distanced itself from liability by utilizing independent contractors for deliveries, arguing that the company does not directly employ these drivers. However, recent legal challenges and court decisions in some jurisdictions have started to question and redefine the nature of Amazon’s responsibility for the actions of its delivery drivers.
As a result, you’ll want to seek guidance as soon as you can to better clarify how you, uniquely, should go about pursuing compensation. As your circumstances are unique and the law on this subject is evolving rapidly, you shouldn’t assume that your case will unfold exactly as any other victim has.
Likely steps you’ll need to take
The initial step you’ll likely take will involve filing a claim with the insurance company of the responsible party. This could be the driver’s insurance, Amazon’s corporate insurance or insurance held by the independent contractor company employing the driver.
If insurance claims do not provide adequate compensation – or if each of the parties/insurers involved tries to pass on responsibility to others and you’re left empty-handed – you may need to consider filing a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible parties. This could include the driver, the independent contractor company and/or Amazon itself, depending on the circumstances and your jurisdiction’s laws regarding liability.
Accidents involving Amazon delivery trucks tend to involve unique legal challenges due to the company’s business model and use of independent contractors. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, taking immediate steps to document the incident and seeking prompt medical attention are important and can set the stage for the complex legal aftermath of your situation that is sure to come.