In some ways, delivery work can be very rewarding. Delivery drivers earn competitive wages and may receive comprehensive benefits packages. They get to witness recipients excitedly accepting their packages in some cases. They also get to work independently without the stress of constant micromanagement or interactions with coworkers.
Unfortunately, delivery work comes with very high-pressure work conditions. Many delivery drivers working for large companies hit the road each day with hundreds of packages to deliver. They may only have a few minutes to dedicate to each delivery. Many of them do not have time to take meal breaks or even bathroom breaks. Their demanding work schedules can potentially lead to delivery drivers causing preventable crashes.
Why do the demands of delivery work increase crash risk?
Compromising safe driving
Delivery drivers should make every reasonable effort to comply with traffic laws and monitor their surroundings. Frequently, the vans or delivery trucks they drive are larger than standard passenger vehicles. They could cause severe injury should a crash occur.
Unfortunately, delivery drivers often have unpredictable routes and may drive in areas with which they are not familiar. They may conduct sudden maneuvers to follow navigation software instructions. They may be unpredictable if they need to suddenly turn around or slam on the brakes in traffic. The sometimes abrupt maneuvers conducted by delivery drivers can lead to preventable collisions.
Parking in unsafe locations
With only a few minutes to complete each delivery on their daily route, delivery drivers do not have the luxury of cruising around to find safe parking. Frequently, they park on the shoulder of the road. In some cases, there may not even be a shoulder.
Delivery drivers often park at the end of driveways. They may leave their vehicles right at the top of a hill or at the edge of a sharp curve. Approaching drivers may not be able to spot the delivery vehicle in time to stop. The pressure to be as fast and efficient as possible can lead to unsafe parking in illegal locations, which may ultimately cause preventable crashes.
Those involved in collisions where a delivery driver is likely at fault may need help seeking compensation. Commercial vehicle collisions can be very costly and difficult to address. Oftentimes, there are commercial insurance policies that may apply and questions about liability. Securing appropriate assistance can help people hold companies accountable for collisions caused by their drivers.