Delivery Driver Back Injuries

Florida Delivery Drivers and Back Injuries

Christmas is only a few days away - it's the most wonderful time of the year. With all the rushing around and increase in package volume, it's also one of the most dangerous times of year for delivery drivers. Read on for what you should do if you get injured at work this time of year. 

No one wants a workplace injury or to be involved in a workplace accident, but oftentimes  even when you are the most careful, they can't be avoided. Whether you work for UPS, FEDEX or Amazon, the increased volume this time of year leads to increased back and lifting injuries - not to mentions increased motor vehicle accidents because of the heavy traffic. Delivery drivers are especially at risk during the Christmas season because of the increased work hours, increased package volume, and the increased stress from work and the holiday season. 

If you were involved in a UPS workplace injury, a FEDEX workplace injury, an Amazon workplace injury, or a workplace injury anywhere in Florida it’s important to consult with an experienced Florida workers comp lawyer. Your lawyer will be able to gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, protect your rights, and secure maximum compensation for your Florida workers comp accident.

Workers compensation is a complex area of law with many pitfalls and deadlines. Call Attorney Andrew Graves at (407) 308-0327 or fill out the free case consultation form ​so we can start working today.

Workplace Back Injuries

Workplace back injuries are some of the most common injuries at work. While there are many causes of back injuries, some causes include:

1. Over Extension - Typically caused by suddenly leaning backwards or lifting a heavy object. These injuries can result in pain, muscle spasms, and radiation of pain into the extremities. 
2. Repetitive Trauma Injury - This has a very specific legal definition and requirements, but simple put, these injuries occur as a result of doing a motion over and over. These injuries can cause serious damage whether it's bending or reaching to pick up a package over and over again. 
3. Motor Vehicle Accident - Motor vehicle accidents can cause serious back issues including whiplash injuries, bulging discs, and herniated discs. 
4. Truck Injury - The vibrations from traveling in a delivery truck can cause fatigue in the back and lead to serious injury. 

Keep in mind, most of the time, even if it's your fault, you're still entitled to workers compensation benefits. This means that even if you caused a motor vehicle accident, you can still receive medical benefits under workers compensation. Even if you picked up a package that was far to heavy, you can still receive medical benefits under workers compensation. 

What should I do?

Delivery drivers including UPS, FEDEX, and Amazon drivers are entitled to the same benefits as anyone else in the state. Workers comp should cover your medical bills an a portion of your lost wages. After an accident you should:

Report Your Injury to Your Supervisor: Florida has a strict 30 day reporting requirement (repetitive trauma injuries are based on when the injury was discovered). If you fail to report the accident/injury within 30 days your claim may be denied.

Seek medical attention: After you report your injury, request medical attention from your supervisor. Generally, they'll send you to an urgent care type facility. If it's a serious or life threatening injury, go to the hospital, then inform your employer.

Gather Evidence: Following an accident, your attorney will request:

1. The date, time, and location of the accident;
2. A description of the accident;
3. Any witnesses and their contact information;
4. The accident report;
5. Any photos of the accident;
6. Any medical records or bills. 

Talk to an Attorney: An experienced Florida workers comp lawyer can help you navigate the complex field of workers comp. An attorney will be able to help you understand the specifics of your case and the legal nuances surrounding the accident and represent you against the insurance company, helping you get the maximum compensation for your case. 

Florida Workers Compensation 
The purpose of workers compensation is to provide medical and financial support for workers who were injured on the job. Workers comp provides specific benefits including:

• Medical Benefits: Workers comp insurance should cover all the reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your accident.
• Lost Wages: Temporary or permanent wage loss benefits are available based on the injury. This amount is based on your pre-injury wages. 
• Vocational Rehab: You may be entitled to vocational rehab or job placement assistance if you are unable to return to your original employment.
• Permanent Disability: You may be entitled to permanent disability benefits based on the nature and severity of the accident. 

Workers Comp Attorney
If you were involved in a UPS injury, FEDEX injury, or Amazon injury it’s important to hire an experienced Florida workers comp lawyer. Your lawyer will be able to gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, protect your rights, and secure maximum compensation for your Florida workers comp accident.

Workers compensation is a complex area of law with many pitfalls and deadlines. Call Attorney Andrew Graves at (407) 308-0327 or fill out the free case consultation form ​so we can start working today.