With more people than ever ordering from Amazon, operators of Amazon Prime delivery trucks and vans are rushing to get their packages delivered as quickly as possible. These delivery drivers often work on tight schedules, leading to fatigue and reckless driving. Unfortunately, the injuries associated with trucking accidents can be devastating.
Our Jersey City Amazon truck accident lawyers represent victims in accident injury claims and wrongful death cases involving Amazon delivery vehicle accidents in Jersey City and the surrounding areas. If you believe an Amazon driver’s negligence may have caused your injury, a qualified lawyer from our firm can review your case.
Amazon Delivery Trucks in New Jersey
Amazon sales in New Jersey and elsewhere have skyrocketed in recent years, especially since the pandemic started. The company has developed Amazon Prime Same-Day Delivery to keep up with the increased demand.
Accidents are bound to happen with so many delivery drivers on the road, many of which do not have commercial driver’s licenses.
If you were in a car accident with an Amazon truck, you might be wondering about your next steps. One of the first things to determine after this kind of accident is whether the delivery driver was an employee of Amazon or a third-party contractor.
Determining Liability in an Amazon Delivery Truck Accident
We can help ensure that all parties who contributed to the accident are held responsible, even if the delivery vehicle driver was a third-party contractor driving for Amazon.
An independent driver, who is not considered a direct employee, still must maintain commercial insurance to cover damages, including property damage, personal injuries, and wrongful death. Amazon offers its New Jersey Amazon Flex delivery drivers commercial auto insurance coverage when they’re actively making deliveries.
When an Amazon delivery truck hits another vehicle, the following parties might be held liable for the resulting damages:
- The Amazon driver
- Amazon or a third-party delivery contractor
- The truck or van manufacturer or a parts manufacturer
- Government agency responsible for the roadway
- A repair service or mechanic who worked on the vehicle
Jersey City Amazon Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me 877-751-9800
Amazon Driver Insurance Coverage Issues
Amazon ensures that every delivery driver is covered by liability insurance when their cars, trucks, and vans are used to make deliveries. The company also provides in-house commercial auto insurance policies for additional coverage in most states.
Amazon delivery truck drivers using their own vehicles are typically covered by their own commercial liability policy or Amazon flex insurance. On the other hand, Amazon employees are covered by the company’s insurance just like any commercial driver.
The blurred boundaries between third-party independent delivery contracting drivers can complicate which insurance company is responsible after a car accident with an Amazon delivery vehicle. For example, the driver may not have been on the clock when the accident happened. An Amazon truck accident lawyer in Jersey City, NJ, can sort all this out for you.
Who To Sue After Getting Hit by an Amazon Truck
As successful as Amazon is, one might expect that the company itself would cover any damages stemming from delivery truck accidents. However, these accidents can become complicated legal issues because Amazon may try to avoid responsibility for the accident, especially when damages exceed insurance policy limits.
The reason Amazon hires drivers as independent contractors is to save money. Not only do they avoid paying for employee benefits, but they can also claim they do not have control over the everyday actions of a delivery driver. This defense has helped Amazon escape liability for many injury accidents caused by its drivers.
That said, an accident victim may still be able to file a claim against the driver and/or the company that they work for (Amazon). If the insurer that provides coverage for the driver does not offer a victim a settlement that fully addresses their injuries and other damages, the victim should consider taking legal action.
Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits in New Jersey
When filing a lawsuit against an at-fault Amazon driver, it is essential to realize that your claim will be subject to the applicable statute of limitations. The statute limits a plaintiff’s time to file a particular type of case against a defendant, such as a personal injury case.
According to New Jersey Revised Statute § 2A:14-2, the time limit for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the accident date. Since two years can fly by in a personal injury case, it is strongly advised to work with an experienced attorney to file your claim as soon as possible.
If a plaintiff fails to take action within the deadline, the defendant can request a motion to dismiss the case, and the court can bar the plaintiff from receiving compensation. If this occurs, the plaintiff may lose any chance of ever getting compensated for their injuries and related losses.
Speak to an Amazon Truck Accident Attorney in Jersey City, NJ
Morelli Law represents clients injured in car and truck accidents across New Jersey and New York. If you or a loved one was involved in a collision with a delivery vehicle in either state, our experienced personal injury lawyers can explain your legal options and fight for compensation on your behalf.
Our Jersey City Amazon truck accident lawyers accept Amazon truck and van accident cases on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay any fees upfront. In fact, you won’t owe us a penny until we get you compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.