What to Do if You’re Hit by an Amazon Flex Driver

Amazon has several delivery vehicles on the road, including delivery vans, Amazon Prime semi-trucks, and Amazon Flex cars. Victims must seek legal recourse when an Amazon driver in any of these vehicles causes a collision. Amazon has a commercial insurance policy that covers drivers on duty at the time of the crash, even when the driver is using a personal vehicle. 

If you have been injured in a collision like this, you should take action to discuss recovery options with an Amazon Flex accident lawyer. 

How Does Amazon Flex Work?

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. 

How Do Drivers Qualify for Amazon Flex?

Amazon Flex drivers are independent contractors, and they choose blocks of times they are available to pick up and deliver packages for two or more hours. The qualifications for becoming a Flex driver are passing a background check, having a smartphone, and having a valid driver’s license. Drivers must watch a tutorial on the Amazon app and have a vehicle with valid registration and insurance. 

Who Is Liable for an Amazon Flex Accident? 

Multiple parties could be held liable for an Amazon Flex accident, including the driver and Amazon. Third-party shipping or loading companies could also be to blame in some instances. Accident victims must file insurance claims to recover compensation and hold negligent parties responsible for their actions. 

One hurdle in these claims is proving the Flex driver was on duty for Amazon during the collision. Flex drivers often deny they were working for fear of losing employment or getting in trouble. Victims must collect all contact and insurance information from the Amazon driver for accuracy. 

How Do You File an Insurance Claim with Amazon?

After an Amazon Flex accident, victims can contact Amazon directly through email or by contacting the insurance company listed on the accident report. The adjuster will take down basic information regarding the accident, and victims must keep these interactions brief. Adjusters are notorious for twisting words. 

What Insurance Coverage Is Available for People Injured in Amazon Accidents?

Insurance coverage will vary depending on the vehicle the driver was using. More insurance coverage is available for Amazon Prime delivery trucks and vans than for Amazon Flex vehicles. Victims can tap into Amazon Flex insurance policies when the collision involves an Amazon Flex vehicle, the driver is at fault, and they are on the clock. Victims should file an insurance claim through the driver’s policy if the driver is off the clock. 

Amazon Flex insurance policies cover liability up to $1 million, comprehensive coverage up to $50,000, and underinsured or uninsured drivers coverage up to $1 million. Victims can file claims and obtain compensation for damages stemming from the accident, like lost wages, medical bills, and lower earning capacity. 

What Steps Should You Take Immediately Following an Accident? 

Immediately following an Amazon Flex accident, it is imperative that victims seek medical attention and consult with an auto accident attorney. Amazon is notorious for denying liability for Flex driver accidents, but they are culpable in these cases. 

Additionally, Amazon has resources to hire attorneys, investigators, and others to reduce compensation. Victims must also contact the insurance company on the accident report to begin a claim and refrain from admitting fault or offering a recorded statement. Lastly, victims should contact their insurance companies to make them aware of the incident. 

How Do Amazon Flex Accidents Happen?

Flex divers have no special training and participate in dangerous behaviors like other motorists. Flex drivers talk on their phones, speed, run traffic signals, and are distracted while driving. 

Flex drivers may feel pressured to commit these actions to complete their jobs. Delivery windows are short, and Flex drivers want to finish early so they can get paid. Amazon offers payment for their entire block of time without working the duration if they deliver all packages. 

Are Injuries Severe in Amazon Flex Accidents?

Amazon Flex accidents result in injuries that are similar to what victims of other motor vehicle accidents suffer. These include conditions such as:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Cuts and lacerations
• Internal organ damage
• Head and neck trauma
• Brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Nerve damage
• Emotional anguish
• Pain and suffering 

Is Medical Attention Necessary After an Accident with an Amazon Flex Driver? 

Yes, medical attention is always necessary after an Amazon Flex accident. Injuries can appear minor, but a medical professional must evaluate the injured person to determine the extent of the damage. In addition to catching any injury before it worsens, a benefit of receiving medical attention following an auto accident is to create a paper trail that ties your injuries directly to the accident. 

Can Victims Sue the Driver Directly? 

Yes, when victims cannot file an insurance claim with Amazon, they can take legal action against the driver directly. Many victims choose to take legal action against both the driver and Amazon. 

Depending on insurance policies and coverage options, victims can pursue two independent claims or a single one against Amazon. Finding the best legal course is challenging and requires the assistance of an Amazon Flex accident attorney. 

What Compensation Can Victims Obtain After an Amazon Delivery Accident? 

Amazon Flex claims are similar to other car accident claims, resulting in the same compensation options. Some compensation victims can recover include property damage, medical expenses, lost income and wages, loss of future earnings, pain and suffering, and more. However, victims must speak with an Amazon Flex attorney to determine the compensation options available. 

Is an Amazon Flex Lawyer Necessary for a Claim?

It is in the best interest of victims of Flex driving accidents to speak with a lawyer to find compensation options and seek justice for their injuries and losses. Discuss your legal options with John Foy & Associates during a free initial consolation.