Explore our guide on smoothly handling post-accident procedures with Amazon, ensuring you're supported every step of the way. Here’s to making tough times a bit easier!
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Most of us have a love-hate relationship with Amazon, but we can agree on one thing. Amazon completely transformed online shopping. Everything you need is available at the click of a button, and it can be on your doorstep from anywhere between a few short hours to a few days.
We’ve come to expect the convenience that Amazon can deliver, and with good reason. Amazon operates a fleet of more than 40,000 trucks and 30,000 branded vans worldwide. Some drivers are traditionally trained truck drivers, while others are flex drivers driving on a regular license as contractors.
With varying levels of driving experience, you may find yourself in an accident with an Amazon truck. While it may seem similar to a regular car accident, there are nuances that you’ll need to navigate if you are in this position. Here’s everything you need to know about navigating the aftermath of a car accident with Amazon.
Amazon Truck Accident Next Steps
Statistics show that Amazon drivers have a higher rate of safety violations, including texting, speeding, and other violations. These unsafe behaviors could lead to more accidents due to reckless driving. If you’re in an Amazon truck accident, you should take the following steps to protect yourself.
Assess the Damage
Take a deep breath. It can be tempting to get out of the car and yell, but it’s not worth it. Your property can be replaced, but you cannot. Get out of the vehicle and assess the damage. Consider if you, your passengers, or the other drivers are injured.
Call 911
You’ll need to get the authorities on the scene, so once you can, call 911. Share the details of the accident, including what happened, where you are, and if anyone is injured on the scene. Police will be dispatched to the accident as soon as they are able.
Collect Evidence
As you wait, take pictures of the Amazon truck accident. Exchange insurance information with the Amazon truck driver and take a picture of their badge. If there are witnesses, be sure to take down their contact information.
Once the police arrive, share the details of what happened. They will connect with the other parties and complete an unbiased report on the scene. Ask for a copy of the report for your records. Make sure it includes the officer’s name and badge number.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, go to the doctor. Share that you were in an accident with an Amazon truck. They will check you for common car accident injuries, including whiplash, head injuries, and more.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company to file a claim with them. Share the information that you gathered, including the police report. An insurance adjuster will come to inspect the damage to your vehicle. They will decide whether to fix or total your car and negotiate with the Amazon truck driver’s insurance about a settlement.
Call An Attorney
A car accident is complex enough, but with a company like Amazon, you’ll want an experienced lawyer who can help advocate for your rights. Share the accident details, evidence you gathered, and your insurance information. They will ensure you get a fair settlement, covering your medical bills, property damage, emotional distress, lost wages, and more.
Liability and Amazon Truck Accidents
Because Amazon employs independent contractors, establishing liability is critical. Liability helps determine who is at fault for the accident, and in fault states, it is important to determine who pays for the accident.
The company can be liable if the driver is a full- or part-time Amazon employee in addition to the driver. Contractors are required to carry Amazon Flex insurance coverage to drive with Amazon. If the truck malfunctioned, causing the accident, the car manufacturer, too, can be held liable.
This also applies if an Amazon driver caused damage to your property while driving. Drivers can hit your mailbox, items in your driveway, or even accidentally back into your house or car. You can file a claim directly with Amazon following the incident, providing all evidence and supporting documentation.
Regardless of the circumstances, an Amazon truck accident can be tricky, and an attorney can help you understand what your next steps should be.
Car Accident with Amazon Conclusion
Amazon can bring so much goodness into our lives, especially when decorating on a budget. You can secure many items at a fraction of retail cost - and you don’t even have to leave home to get them! It’s come in clutch with so many projects that it’s impossible to quit entirely, even if you can limit your purchases by thrifting and upcycling.
However, Amazon isn’t perfect. Items come damaged, late, or don’t arrive at all. Sometimes, its drivers can damage your personal property, or you may even get in an accident with one of the drivers.
It can be frustrating if these scenarios happen, but take a deep breath. You have options to protect yourself and your property. You will live to shop at Amazon another day!
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