Chicago Work Injury Lawyers for Amazon Delivery Workers

Amazon is the world’s largest online retailer, grossing over $280 billion in sales in 2019. The company’s success lies in its ability to simplify complex purchase and delivery logistics. Customers repeatedly turn to Amazon for easy access to millions of quality products that are delivered quickly upon ordering.

While the ecommerce giant is based in Seattle, Washington, it operates warehouses around the world. Amazon relies on carriers like FedEx, UPS and others to transport packages. It has a big presence in Illinois, with distribution and fulfillment centers located throughout the state. In the Chicago Metropolitan Area, the company has contracts with local delivery providers that pick up goods from nearby Amazon warehouses and take them to residential and commercial addresses. Using third parties has allowed Amazon to streamline its delivery system.

Under Amazon’s Flex delivery program, independent delivery drivers fulfill Prime Now and Prime Same Day orders in Chicago and other major U.S. cities. Every driver is required to participate in Amazon-developed safety training and follow company policies such as wearing a uniform and using on-road technology. However, some Amazon delivery drivers may not realize that the company does not classify them as employees. Because drivers are treated as independent subcontractors who work for privately owned delivery providers, Amazon does not provide employment benefits like they would to regular employees.

If you were injured while working for Amazon, you could be eligible for workers’ compensation. Because of the complex laws surrounding Amazon delivery workers, it is essential to have an experienced work injury lawyer protecting your rights if suffer an injury on the job. Whether you were injured while driving for Amazon or performing another delivery-related task, Briskman Briskman & Greenberg can help you obtain proper compensation.

Amazon Delivery Workers Are Exposed to Work Injury Risks

Amazon delivery workers face a number of risks in their day-to-day jobs such as motor vehicle collisions, slip and fall accidents and dog bite incidents. For instance, they may have to deal with slippery pavements when dropping off packages at doorsteps, courtesy of Illinois’ adverse weather conditions. Delivery work also often involves lifting heavy boxes and repetitive motion, which can lead to back injuries.

Amazon Flex drivers are required to drive to different urban and suburban locations and park their vehicles in heavily trafficked areas in order to make deliveries. With the number of miles they log every year while transporting packages, there are chances of being involved in a serious accident. Additionally, delivery workers may be rushing from one destination to another due to the pressure of meeting tight delivery schedules. Amazon’s prioritization of productivity over safety can lead to serious injuries that arise from fatigue and exhaustion.

Workers’ Compensation for Amazon Delivery Workers

Amazon drivers are still covered under Illinois workers’ compensation laws. The state requires most businesses, including delivery services, to provide workers’ compensation to protect workers who suffer on-the-job injuries. There are a range of available benefits that cover medical care, surgery, medications, lost wages and other accident-related costs. You do not need to prove fault in order to get these benefits.

You may also be entitled to disability benefits and vocational rehabilitation. A seasoned work injury lawyer can help you file a workers’ compensation claim to ensure you receive the financial support you need while recovering from your work injury.

Third Party Claims in Amazon Delivery Accidents

Workers’ compensation benefits provide a certain amount of financial support but may not address the full scope of your losses if you suffer serious or catastrophic injuries. In some circumstances you may be able to bring a third-party claim rather than just filing for workers’ compensation.

For example, if you get hit by another vehicle while making deliveries for Amazon, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver. While workers’ compensation benefits are limited to economic losses, a personal injury claim enables you to recover damages for pain and suffering, mental anguish and more.

Such cases often involve complicated liability issues. Factors like the worker’s status, actions at the time of the crash, and each party’s insurance policies are considered when determining fault in an accident. A work injury attorney can guide you on your legal options for obtaining compensation after a work-related accident.

What to Do After an Amazon Delivery Accident

If you were hurt on the job while making deliveries for Amazon, there are certain actions you must take to protect your legal rights for getting compensation. You should do the following after a work-related accident:

• Call law enforcement if you were involved in a vehicle accident. If your injury occurred due to other reasons such as a slip and fall or equipment mishap, report the incident to your supervisor right away.

• Fill out an accident report with details about exactly what happened. Hold on to important documents like police reports and medical records.

• Get immediate medical treatment. Call 911 if you were seriously injured in an accident while making deliveries. You should see a doctor even if your injuries do not appear to be serious.

• Talk to a work injury lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you receive the maximum amount of compensation possible.

Injured as an Amazon Delivery Worker? Contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg.

If you suffered a work injury as an Amazon delivery worker in and around Chicago, discuss your situation with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. Dealing with a powerful company like Amazon comes with many challenges that are difficult to handle without proper legal representation. Our seasoned work injury lawyers will help you obtain workers’ compensation benefits and find out whether you have grounds to bring a personal injury lawsuit against a third party.

Call Briskman Briskman & Greenberg at (312) 222-0010 for a free consultation.