With the growth of online shopping, delivery trucks and vehicles have become a regular sight on the roads. So, when you are involved in an accident with an Amazon delivery vehicle, the steps you take right after the accident can determine how your claim is processed.
A few important steps you need to keep in mind when facing such situations are getting a medical evaluation, documenting the accident scene, collecting driver information, and not admitting fault at the scene.
Also, when you are involved in an accident with an Amazon delivery vehicle, you might find it difficult to understand who is at fault. It can be the driver, Amazon, or the manufacturer of the vehicle. By understanding the steps to take, you can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What steps to take after an Amazon delivery vehicle crash?
1. Prioritize Medical Health
If you have been involved in an accident, remember that your health always comes first. So even if you feel fine after the accident or don’t notice any injuries, it is best to get yourself checked by a medical expert. This is because sometimes internal injuries may not show any symptoms right away.
Apart from that, your medical records play a very important role in the documentation process as proof of your injuries. It can, in fact, determine how much compensation you are eligible for based on your medical bills and injuries.
2. Document the Accident Scene
If you feel fine after the accident, you can take photographs and videos of the scene of the accident to be used as evidence when you file a claim. Take photos of damage to your vehicles, photos of the license plate and logos on the delivery vehicle, check the road for skid marks, etc.
If there are any witnesses nearby, ensure that you take their details so that their statement can be used as proof of what actually happened.
3. Gather Driver and Company Information
Most times, delivery drivers work for third-party contractors and not Amazon directly. Which is why it is important that you collect as many details as you can of the driver, such as their name and contact information, their insurance details, their license number, and also details of their employer.
4. Don’t Admit Fault on the Scene
Sometimes saying words like “sorry,” even if you are just trying to be polite after the accident, can backfire. Some insurance companies may use it against you to show that you are at fault, thereby reducing your claim. So always try to just stick to facts and don’t mention any details you are not sure of.
5. Get Help From an Attorney
Accidents involving delivery vehicles are complex and sometimes can involve multiple insurance policies, legal terms, and liability issues. By getting help from a personal injury attorney, you can ensure that you don’t take any wrong steps that may affect your claim. Your attorney will help you protect your rights.
Understanding Liability in an Amazon Delivery Vehicle Crash
As mentioned earlier, establishing liability in such cases involving delivery vehicles is an overwhelming and confusing task. Since there are many parties involved in such cases, it is very important that the liability is determined carefully.
In cases of issues such as drunken driving, rash driving, etc., the driver can be held liable. The employer or Amazon will be held responsible in cases where they did not properly inquire about the background of the driver, or if the accident was caused by improper maintenance by the company.
Third parties, such as the manufacturers, can be held liable if the accident was caused by vehicle defects on their end.
Key Takeaways
- The steps you take after an Amazon delivery crash can directly affect your claim.
- The first step should be to always get medical attention.
- Document the scene and capture photos, videos, and witness information.
- Collect details of the delivery driver and their employer.
- Don’t admit fault or give statements to insurance companies.
- Always get advice from a personal injury lawyer.
Published by HOLR Magazine.