How many packages do you get delivered in a week? If you are like most Americans,
it’s likely quite a few, and that means you probably have hardworking delivery drivers
who make frequent visits.
If you are a delivery driver, you know that your job is physically demanding: the driving,
carrying heavy packages, and more.
You likely have an idea about how being a delivery driver, with its hours of driving, lifting,
loading, unloading, and carrying heavy and bulky packages can take a toll on your
health. Listed below are some common injuries for delivery drivers and what you need
to know about workers’ compensation claims.
One of the first things delivery drivers need to understand is this: No matter who you
deliver packages for, if you are hurt on the job – or if you have an injury that is related to
your work – you can file a workers’ compensation claim.
That’s right: if you sustain an injury to your back, neck, hip, shoulder, elbow or other
body part – if its work related – you can file for workers’ compensation.
Let’s take a look at some common injuries – both from a one-time incident or repetitive
use.
Trips and slips: Delivering packages can mean walking on uneven surfaces, or even
those that are icy or wet. That can mean tripping, falling and slipping – which can lead
to broken bones, sprains, or even head injuries!
Vehicle crashes: Spending more time on the road than the average person means
delivery drivers are more likely to get into a vehicle crash, which could lead to any
number of injuries, including more serious ones! It also means you might be hit by a
vehicle while you are working as well, as a pedestrian.
Repetitive motion injuries: Doing the same thing over and over again can be hard on
your body, so your average delivery driver is more prone to issues like carpal tunnel
syndrome or even tendonitis. Poor ergonomics can also lead to nerve issues or other
musculoskeletal problems.
Animal attacks, criminal assaults, or weather ailments: Delivery drivers do their jobs in
all kinds of weather and with all kinds of interactions with the public, making dog bites,
criminal attacks and weather-related ailments like heat stroke some of the risks that
accompany the job.
While there are risks involved, being a delivery driver means you may eligible for
workers’ compensation. If you are hurt at work, or if you are suffering from an ailment
that you got from doing your job, you can always file a claim – because you are entitled
to benefits!

Connor Kimmet and Hafenstein LLP

If you have questions about an injury and how it can impact your job, our qualified
attorneys are here to help. Contact us today.