Millions of parcels get delivered across the United States each and every day, and tens of thousands of Minnesotans are responsible for getting those deliveries to their destination on time. Whether it’s a package from Amazon or a pizza from Domino’s, delivery drivers in Minnesota face less than ideal road conditions and the prospect of an accident every time they step into their vehicle. Below, we explain how they can get workers’ compensation and personal injury compensation for an on the job injury.
Workers’ Compensation For Delivery Drivers
There are a number of ways delivery drivers can be injured on the job. We’ve heard of and represented delivery drivers who have experienced the following types of injuries:
- Single vehicle accidents
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Struck by another vehicle while outside of the vehicle
- Slip and fall accidents while delivering
- Dog bites or injuries from animals/pets
- Muscle strains or related injuries from lifting and carrying heavy packages
As you can see, there are a number of different ways delivery drivers can be injured on the job. In some instances, they can file a personal injury suit in addition to their workers’ compensation claim. So when can their file two claims, and when should they just stick to a workers’ compensation suit? We explain in the next section.
Personal Injury or Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Although every case is different, generally speaking, you may be able to file a personal injury suit in addition to your workers’ compensation claim if you were directly or indirectly injured by a third party. For example, if you hit a curb and suffered whiplash, or you threw out your back picking up a package, you are probably only entitled to file a workers’ compensation claim. No other party contributed to your injuries, so there is nobody else to hold liable for your injuries.
If, however, you were struck by a driver who was texting behind the wheel, or you slipped on some ice because a homeowner failed to clear their driveway of snow, you may be able to file two claims. Your first claim will be your standard workers’ compensation claim, but you may also be able to file a personal injury claim against the third party whose actions or negligence contributed to your injury.
At Hey Workers, we have helped delivery drivers and other workers file both workers’ compensation and personal injury lawsuits based on their specific cases. If you believe you are eligible to file multiple claims, or you want assistance drafting and filing your claim, pick up the phone and call Hey Workers at 844-439-9675. We can put together whatever claim you need and help maximize your payout. To learn how we can help you after a work injury, reach out to our firm today.
