Delivery Driver Slip and Fall Injuries
What to Do If You Are Hurt Delivering Food or Packages
These days, we rely on delivery drivers for just about everything, from groceries to takeout. These individuals spend a good amount of time both on the road and walking to and from homes where they drop off goods. This means they are more likely than most to be exposed to the elements, including rain, snow, or ice. These weather conditions can result in dangerous conditions that lead to slip and fall accidents for drivers who are out on their routes. Unfortunately, such accidents can cause serious injuries and even death. What are your options if you are hurt delivering food or packages? Let’s take a closer look at delivery driver slip and fall injuries and what you can expect if you are hurt on the job.
Why Are Delivery Drivers at Risk of Slip and Fall Injuries?
Delivery drivers are more likely to experience slip and fall accidents because, quite simply, they spend a lot of time outside. They are also, by nature of the work, carrying items that may be heavy, hot, or otherwise awkward. Delivery may involve walking up flights of stairs or across winding walkways. Factor in variables like poor weather conditions or uneven pavement, and you have a good recipe for a slip and fall.
What Are Some Common Slip and Fall Injuries?
Slip and fall injuries range from mild to severe. The most common injuries are simple bruises and sprains. More serious falls, however, can result in an array of debilitating injuries, including
- Herniated discs
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injury
- Lacerations (deep cuts)
It is important to seek medical attention right away after a serious fall. Even if you suspect you are uninjured, it is advisable to check with a healthcare professional. Certain injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, do not present symptoms until some time has passed.
Who is Responsible for a Slip and Fall Accident?
The person or persons liable in a slip and fall accident will depend on where and when the accident occurred, and whether or not the individuals responsible took steps to mitigate or announce any imminent danger on the property.
Premises liability laws state that a homeowner is liable when an invitee is injured on their property due to negligence. Delivery drivers are considered “invitees” because their presence is presumably expected by the homeowner. This means that, if a delivery driver slips and falls while delivering a package, food, or other product, the homeowner can be liable if he or she did not take steps to reduce a known risk to the driver.
For example, if the homeowner was aware that a broken downspout was directing freezing water onto the sidewalk but did nothing to fix the issue, he or she would almost certainly be liable for a slip and fall accident involving a delivery driver. Likewise, unshoveled snow left to freeze could potentially be the fault of the homeowner.
Colorado Snow Removal Laws
Colorado law requires that residents remove snow from their drive and sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowstorm. Snow must be placed in the yard or other part of an individual’s private property and not into the street, where it can create driving obstacles and drainage issues. Snow should never block signage or hinder accessibility for wheelchair bound persons. Failure to adhere to these rules can result in a fine and, in repeat cases, jail time. Offending individuals will also be responsible for damage to public property or personal injury that occurred.
What Should You Do If You Are Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident?
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident as a delivery driver, your first priority should be your safety. Call for medical attention, if necessary, and address any immediate physical concerns. Once you are safe, report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. Regardless of who was at fault for the accident, being injured while working means you will likely need to file a worker’s compensation claim.
Document the circumstances of the fall and photograph contributing factors, such as an unshoveled walk or uneven pavement. Note the time and location of the incident, and keep all relevant medical documentation. If witnesses were present, request contact information or written statements.
If you were injured directly due to the negligence of another, you may also have the option to pursue legal action against the liable party. Premises liability can be complicated to prove, so you will want to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. A good lawyer will work to build a solid case for you while you focus on recovery.
Slip and Fall Attorney Colorado
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident in Colorado, contact David Roth with The Roth Group. Dave is a skilled insurance and personal injury attorney who works tirelessly for his clients, in and out of the courtroom. Call or go online today to schedule a free consultation.