The sight of an Amazon delivery van pulling up outside your home can give you a happy feeling, especially if you’ve ordered something amazing. But your perspective changes when you’re on a bicycle and those enormous Amazon vehicles transform into dangerous obstacles on the streets.
Delivering Danger for Bicyclists
Amazon’s trucks, vans, and contracted vehicles dart across the Bay Area all day long. Bicyclists already face dangers from the insane traffic and narrow streets, but add in an Amazon Fleet operated by all-too-human drivers and collisions can be expected.
A stress-relieving bike ride can be upended in a flash. One distracted Amazon Driver can leave you on the ground and injured. In the aftermath, you could be left wondering just who will take responsibility for your recovery.
Amazon Fleet and Accident Numbers
The New York Times reported that in a five-year span drivers for Amazon have been in 60 accidents. That number may be misleading though. There are likely dozens of more incidents but not all accidents involving their contracted vehicles get documented as involving Amazon. Sometimes only the driver is mentioned in accident reports.
Amazon’s own website says that Small and Medium Class businesses sell about 4000 items a minute on the site and app. Amazon also reports making 75 Billion dollars in the first quarter of 2020. They owe their shoppers quality merchandise and speedy delivery, but they are also responsible for hiring safe drivers and putting safe vehicles on the road.
What to do if you’re Struck by an Amazon Truck
You may be riding around the block or on a marathon trip. We know distracted drivers are the biggest threat to your joyous ride. Delivery drivers are particularly at risk for distraction as they worry about their next delivery and delivery quotas. They can miss you and your bike in front of them, beside them or even behind them.
If you are hit by a delivery vehicle see to your safety first. Make sure you aren’t in the path of another collision. If you can’t get up, wait for emergency crews to arrive. If you are able to rise, here are a few things to note on the scene:
- Call 911 – Get Medical Treatment. Get a police report.
- Take Photos and Video – Document the location, the damaged bike, the delivery vehicle, and any visible injuries.
- Collect information from the driver, any witnesses, and note any signage that identifies Amazon or any other delivery company.
- Don’t get rid of ripped clothing or your damaged bike. Keep this evidence for when you file a claim.
- Get checked out with your own doctor. Document any injuries from the scene or other symptoms you didn’t notice at first.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bay Area emergency rooms have seen every kind of bike accident injury. Some are more common because of the way victims hit the ground or an object, such as an Amazon Delivery Van. Here are some of the injuries you can expect:
- Head Injuries (Traumatic Brain Injury/Concussions)
- Fractured wrists
- Broken Ribs
- Fractured Legs/Pelvis
- Road rash
- Deep contusions
Contact a Bay Area Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in an accident with a driver who was out delivering for Amazon you will need to be ready to hold Amazon responsible. In California, you can collect damages even if you weren’t wearing a helmet. There’s also generally a two-year deadline for making a claim after an accident. Other state laws can affect your case. You’ll need an experienced attorney on your side as you recuperate and work towards getting back on your bike.
Bay Area Bicycle Law is the only personal injury law firm in Northern California to specialize exclusively in representing injured cyclists. Years of advocacy for bicycle victims have seasoned our attorneys with the necessary skills, knowledge base, and familiarity to handle bicycle accident cases with the utmost level of professional expertise.
Contact us today for a free consultation. California cyclists who are injured by negligent drivers are entitled to a wide array of compensation. We will always offer you legal advice which is in your best interest.