October is here, which means that a lot of folks are already gearing up for the holiday season. Amazon Prime Day 2020 — with all its steals and deals — is coming up soon.
With that in mind, it’s smart to start being cautious on the road. When the online holiday orders get started, the delivery trucks multiply — and Amazon has repeatedly chosen speed over safety.
Delivery drivers, whether they work for Amazon directly or are contractors working through another company, are constantly pushed to meet unreasonable shipping promises. As such, the company has pushed unqualified drivers through their hiring process and pressured many to take risks as they go about their deliveries.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to be on the highway to end up in a serious accident with an Amazon delivery driver this fall or winter. Delivery trucks may be rushing down your residential street several times a day, putting you at risk every time you step out to walk the dog or pull out of your own driveway to go to the store.
If you are in an accident with such a vehicle, here are some tips to remember:
- Call the police and seek immediate medical treatment. Don’t let your sympathies for the driver distract you from the steps you need to take to protect your own interests. A police officer will document the scene and prompt medical care will help establish the connection between the accident and your injuries.
- Get experienced legal assistance right away. It’s important to act quickly because there may be important electronic evidence in the delivery vehicle that could otherwise be lost. For example, Amazon delivery vehicles are usually equipped with navigation devices that record their movements and cameras, both of which may help prove your claim. An attorney can ensure that the evidence is properly preserved.
Many commercial vehicle accidents could be prevented if the companies that call the shots were more responsible and valued people over profits. Until that time, you have to do everything in your power to secure your right to compensation for your injuries.
