Colorado Car Accident Caused by an Amazon Delivery Driver 

Car accidents can be a traumatic experience, and when they involve Amazon delivery drivers, the situation can become even more complex. In such cases, understanding insurance coverage and what steps to take immediately after the accident can make a significant difference. This is why the personal injury lawyers at Bowman Law created the following comprehensive guide to help you navigate the aftermath of a car accident involving an Amazon delivery driver. 

Is Amazon Liable for Car Accidents Caused by Delivery Drivers?  

The extent of Amazon’s responsibility for car accidents caused by its delivery drivers depends on the driver’s classification as an employee or independent contractor. This question has been a subject of ongoing debate and legal scrutiny in recent times. In fact, Amazon has faced lawsuits and legal challenges regarding the classification. The classification of Amazon delivery drivers is very important when discussing handling personal injury claims following a car accident.  

Employers Are Usually Responsible For Their Employees 

As a primer, it is important to note employers are generally responsible for car accidents caused by their employees while performing job-related duties. This principle, known as “respondeat superior,” means that if a delivery driver, who is an employee of Amazon, causes a car accident while delivering packages, Amazon may be held liable for any damages resulting from the accident. 

Proving liability in such cases can be complex, and it often depends on various factors such as whether the driver was within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident. Amazon may dispute liability by arguing the driver was not acting within their employment duties. In such cases, it is important to consult with qualified personal injury attorneys.  

Independent Contractors Maybe Responsible For Their Own Actions 

The liability landscape changes when the Amazon delivery driver is considered an independent contractor rather than an employee. Independent contractors are typically seen as self-employed individuals responsible for their own actions, including their driving behaviors. If an accident occurs with an independent contractor, the primary responsibility may fall squarely on the driver. 

Proving liability in cases involving independent contractors can be clearer than with employees, as the driver’s status generally reduces the employer’s responsibility. However, pursuing a claim against an independent contractor may still involve complexities, including sufficiency of insurance coverage, and it is advisable to consult with qualified personal injury attorneys to understand your options and hold the responsible party accountable. 

What Should I do if I am Hit by an Amazon Driver?

If you are hit by an Amazon delivery driver, it is crucial to follow the standard procedures for any car accident. Begin by documenting the accident scene, collecting essential information such as driver details, vehicle information, and insurance information. Contact the authorities to create an official report of the incident, and seek medical attention if there are injuries. 

Furthermore, consider consulting with qualified personal injury attorneys who specialize in car accidents and liability. An experienced attorney can provide guidance on understanding your legal rights and options for pursuing a claim against the responsible party, whether it’s the driver or Amazon. 

If you were involved in a car accident with an Amazon delivery driver, be sure to adhere to the following recommendations:

• Take photographs of the scene of the accident, including all the damages sustained by the vehicles involved.
• Take photographs of the visible physical injuries that you suffered due to the accident.
• Collect all insurance information of all the drivers that were involved in the accident.
• Collect all witness information, including names and contact numbers.
• File an accident report with the police.
• Report the accident to Amazon
• Seek medical attention, ensuring that you keep all records associated with the care received for your injuries.

How to File A Claim Against an Amazon Delivery Driver

If you need to file an insurance claim against an Amazon delivery driver, the process may vary depending on the driver’s classification as an employee or an independent contractor. 

For Accidents Involving an Amazon Employee

For accidents involving employees, you should contact Amazon’s insurance department, which can guide you through the process of filing your claim. The process typically involves providing the necessary documentation, such as the accident report, medical records, and details of your economic and non-economic damages. 

For Accidents Involving an Amazon Independent Contractor

For accidents involving independent contractors, you will generally need to work directly with the driver’s insurance company. In such cases, it’s essential to gather all relevant information and maintain clear communication with the driver’s insurer to ensure your claim is processed promptly and fairly.

If you are involved in a car accident with an Amazon delivery driver and believe that Amazon may be liable for your damages, you may have the option to pursue legal action against the company. The ability to sue Amazon largely depends on the driver’s employment status and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The Outcome of a Claim: Employee Vs. Independent Contractor

For accidents involving Amazon employees, you may have a stronger case for pursuing a claim against Amazon. If the driver was working within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident, Amazon’s liability for the damages becomes more apparent. However, for accidents involving independent contractors, it can be more challenging to hold Amazon accountable. In these cases, the driver’s personal liability often takes precedence. 

To assess the merits of your case and explore the possibility of suing Amazon for your damages, consult with a personal injury attorney who can provide valuable legal guidance and representation.

What is the Amazon Flex Program?   

Amazon Flex allows regular motorists to pick up supplemental income by delivering part-time. Drivers are inexperienced and often need to become accustomed to the delivery demands of working for Amazon. The high expectations can push many drivers past their capabilities. 

Flex drivers are gig workers and do not have the same standards as regular employees of Amazon. Amazon Flex drivers have a higher likelihood of being in collisions than Amazon van drivers. 

The contractors will bid on the blocks of time, making it competitive. The high expectations can push many drivers past their capabilities. Flex drivers are gig workers and do not have the same standards as regular employees of Amazon. Amazon Flex drivers have a higher likelihood of being in collisions than Amazon van drivers. The contractors will bid on the blocks of time, making it competitive.  

While Amazon drivers are employed as independent contractors, Amazon does offer coverage for delivery drivers who are under the Amazon Flex program. They use their personal vehicles to complete deliveries and select their own schedule based on their availability.

An Amazon flex driver can be covered by Amazon’s insurance coverage as long as the personal vehicle has its own insurance. This type of coverage provides for up to $1 million in auto liability coverage, as well as uninsured or under-insured motorist property damage and collision coverage. For a thorough breakdown of Amazon’s insurance coverage, follow this link to read the full article. 

Who is Liable in an Amazon Flex Accident?

Importantly, multiple parties could be held liable for a car accident caused by an Amazon flex driver. This includes third-party shippers or even loading companies. Navigating the claims process can be difficult, however, so it is important to consult with qualified personal injury attorneys to ensure all insurance claims are filed appropriately. 

How to File A Claim Against Amazon Flex

To file a claim with Amazon, you will need to contact the Amazon Flex Insurance Department, or you can go through the company’s website or app. 

• To begin the process, navigate to the “Support” page on Amazon’s website and select “File a Claim.” 
• The customer service representative will guide you through the appropriate steps to initiate a claim and provide any additional information needed.

What Documents Do I Need to File a Claim?

It is important to ensure that you have all the necessary details and documents before filing your claim with Amazon. This includes a copy of the police report, pictures of the vehicle damage, medical bills, valid driver’s license of both parties, and other documentation related to the accident. Having this information readily available will help expedite the process.

What Happens After I File a Claim?

Once your claim is filed, the Amazon team will review everything and make a decision about whether or not to approve coverage for the damages. If approved, you may be eligible for reimbursement for any medical expenses or property damage incurred as a result of the accident.

Processing time can take up to two weeks, depending on the specifics of the incident. The customer service representative will keep you updated throughout the process and inform you once a decision has been made.

Should I Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer?  

Whether Amazon drivers are employees or independent contractors plays a significant role in defining accountability. If you have been hit by an Amazon driver, consult with the personal injury attorneys at Bowman Law to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation for economic and non-economic damages, pain and suffering, impairment, lost wages, and more. 

Our qualified personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of these cases and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Bowman Law today! We serve Colorado’s Front Range including Denver, Colorado Springs, Boulder, Fort Collins, including Aurora.