Truck and
Package Delivery

Illinois Injuries to Package Delivery Drivers

In 2012, drivers of package delivery trucks experienced higher rates of fatal and nonfatal injuries and illnesses than the average of all private industry occupations. Particularly in busy cities such as Chicago, any job that requires driving throughout the city and surrounding areas comes with added risks. Delivery drivers, like large commercial truck drivers, are on a constant deadline, which can lead to physical and mental stress and injury.

Package delivery drivers get in and out of their trucks hundreds of times each and every week. This leads to added strain on the body that results in repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and rotator cuff injuries. The injuries sustained by a package delivery driver could be covered under workers’ compensation or third-party liability, depending on the facts surrounding the accident and any subsequent injuries. An experienced Chicago workers’ compensation attorney from Malman Law can help you determine the best course of action to ensure that your medical expenses and lost wages are fully covered.

Causes of Chicago Truck and Package Delivery Driver Injuries

There are many reasons why a truck and package delivery driver could experience injury while on the job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 41 percent of these injuries are related to overexertion and bodily reaction (lifting heavy boxes and packages). In addition, 23 percent are related to falls, slips and trips (largely on uneven surfaces, poorly lit walkways, slick floors, or ice, sleet and snow), 19 percent are due to contact with an object or equipment, and 13 percent are due to transportation incidents. Other causes of injury to package delivery drivers include:

• Repetitive strain injuries due to lifting heavy items repeatedly, or getting in and out of the truck repeatedly;
• Dog bites while attempting to deliver packages;
• Injuries resulting from poorly maintained vehicles or faulty equipment;
• Poorly designed ergonomics in delivery trucks, resulting in injury;
• Personal injuries resulting from an auto collision with another vehicle; and
• Injuries resulting from a violent act, such as a robbery or burglary.