If youโve been hit by an Amazon delivery vehicle in Californiaโwhether it was an Amazon-branded van, a Flex driver, or a third-party contractorโyouโre not alone. These claims are complex, but you may be entitled to significant compensation. Hereโs what you need to know.
5 Steps to Take After an Amazon Truck Crash
- Call 911: Report the crash and get emergency help.
- Document Everything: Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
- Get Medical Care: Go to the ER or urgent careโeven if you feel okay.
- Donโt Speak to Amazon or Insurers: Say nothing until you have legal representation.
- Call a Truck Accident Attorney: These cases are not like regular crashes. You need legal help fast.
Whoโs Liable After an Amazon Delivery Accident?
Amazon uses three delivery models:
- Amazon Flex Drivers: Independent contractors using personal vehicles.
- Delivery Service Partners (DSPs): Small companies contracted by Amazon to operate delivery vans.
- Amazon Freight: Long-haul trucks moving goods between warehouses.
Each model comes with different insurance coverage and liability issues. Under California Civil Code ยง1714, parties can be held liable for harm caused by their negligenceโeven if they delegate work to others. Amazon often tries to shift responsibility onto Flex drivers or DSPs, but legal precedent shows that Amazon may still share fault.
What Insurance Covers Amazon Accidents?
- Amazon Flex: $1 million in liability coverage when the app is active
- Amazon DSPs: Commercial auto policies typically covering up to $1 million per accident
- Amazon Freight: Coverage may vary; multiple layers of liability may apply
Determining which policy appliesโand proving Amazonโs connectionโrequires legal expertise. We recommend reviewing our Truck Accident Lawyer page to understand how we approach these commercial claims.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Damagesโmoney for your lossesโmay include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
California Statute of Limitations
You typically have 2 years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. If a government vehicle or roadway was involved, the deadline may be just 6 months. Donโt wait.
Real Case Example: $450,000 Settlement
One of our clients in Sacramento was rear-ended by an Amazon DSP van. Initially offered $25,000, we investigated the driverโs route data, uncovered surveillance footage, and used employment records to prove excessive hours and poor training. The final settlement was $450,000.
Feeling Overwhelmed After the Crash?
Take a deep breath. Youโre not alone. Write down what happened, keep your records, and let a lawyer guide you through this. We know how to deal with Amazon and their insurers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amazon responsible if a DSP driver hits me?
Not always directlyโbut if Amazon controlled routes, schedules, or policies, they may share liability under Californiaโs joint responsibility rules (shared blame).
What happens if I was hit by an Amazon Flex driver?
Amazon provides up to $1 million in liability coverage when the app is active. We can help determine whether that coverage applies in your case.
Do Amazon accident cases take longer than regular car accidents?
Often, yes. Commercial cases involve more investigation, higher stakes, and complex insurance policies.
Can I sue Amazon directly?
Sometimes. If Amazon exercises enough control over the driver or delivery conditions, you may have a direct claim.
How much is my case worth?
Every case is different. Weโve secured six-figure and seven-figure results depending on injuries, insurance, and fault.
