Amazon vans are a common sight on California’s roads, and accidents involving Amazon drivers aren’t exactly uncommon. But how does an accident with an Amazon driver differ from an accident with a passenger vehicle? And what should you do if you find yourself in this situation?
Get to Safety and Call 911
The first thing you should do after any traffic accident is ensure that everyone is safe. Check yourself and any other passengers for injuries. Then, see if the other driver is okay, too.
Once you’ve done that, move to a safe location and call 911 to report the accident. Let the dispatcher know if you believe anyone is injured so that they can send medical personnel. Responding police officers will file a report, which serves as important evidence for your case.
Exchange Information
The next step is to exchange information with the Amazon driver. Get their name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
It’s also a good idea to get the license plate number of the Amazon vehicle and the contact information for the driver’s employer. Most Amazon drivers are not employees of Amazon but rather of independent “Delivery Service Partners” contracted by Amazon to handle last-mile deliveries.
Document the Scene
If possible, take pictures of the vehicles, any relevant traffic signs or signals, and the road surrounding the accident. Any additional details you find may help your case.
At this point, you should also collect contact information from any eyewitnesses. They may be able to help corroborate your story later on.
Later, when it’s safe to do so, write down your memory of events while it’s still fresh in your mind. This account can provide crucial context when it’s time to file your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you’re not in pain, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention after you’ve been in an accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash, might not show up right away. A medical professional can diagnose these latent injuries and start treatment before they worsen.
Seeking medical attention is also an excellent way to document your injuries. It shows that your injuries are real and that you took steps to address them.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Next, report the accident to your insurance company so that you do not jeopardize any coverage in your policy. Do not stray from the strict facts of the case or speculate on what happened.
Keep Detailed Records
Keeping a file of all the documents related to the accident is key. These documents should include medical records, insurance company correspondence, contact information of the delivery driver, and any evidence you were able to get at the scene. Having these records available when you need them can make the process smoother.
Get Legal Assistance
Any car accident claim can be a complicated process, but one involving an Amazon delivery driver can be especially so. Fortunately, you do not have to pursue your case alone. Instead, you can turn to an experienced car accident attorney for help. While you focus on your recovery, they can:
- Investigate the Amazon delivery van accident to determine what happened and who is at fault
- Calculate the overall cost of the accident, including in terms of your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering
- Determine available insurance coverage and negotiate with providers with the goal of reaching a fair, out-of-court settlement
- Take your case to trial if it becomes the best way to get you the money you deserve
Most good car accident lawyers offer free consultations. Schedule one with a trusted attorney in your area and bring the evidence you gathered in the earlier steps with you. Your prospective lawyer can review this material to determine your options and your best path forward.
Amazon Driver Accident Lawyers in Walnut Creek, CA
Being involved in an accident with an Amazon driver in Walnut Creek can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. The lawyers of Casper, Meadows, Schwartz, & Cook can help. Contact our law office today for a free consultation.