What to Do if You Get Hurt While Working Overtime as a Delivery Driver

If you’re a delivery driver, you’re probably used to the long hours on the job during the holidays. This is the time when everyone is buying gifts for their families, taking advantage of special deals, and getting more packages than they would at other times of the year.

While these overtime hours are a good source of income, they increase the risk of workplace accidents. Learn more about whether you can qualify for benefits if you’re working overtime and how our workers’ comp lawyers can help.

Are You Covered If You Get Hurt During Overtime?

Thankfully, New York’s workers’ compensation law covers any injury obtained on the job. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve been working overtime or during your regular hours. Despite this, some employers may try to argue against it and say you weren’t “on the clock” when the incident happened. For this reason, it’s always important to prove the injury happened while you were actually working. Doing this helps you shut down any disputes early on and makes it harder for insurance adjusters to question your claim.

Common Injuries Delivery Drivers Face During Overtime

Anything can happen while on the job, but delivery drivers tend to experience these types of accidents the most:

• Slip-and-fall injuries while rushing deliveries
• Back and shoulder strains from lifting heavy packages
• Car accidents from long hours or fatigue
• Repetitive stress injuries (knees, wrists, ankles)
• Musculoskeletal injuries from slips, trips, or falls

In most cases, overtime exacerbates these issues. The long hours and pressure to deliver everything on time can cause workers to overlook safety rules and get into accidents.

What To Do If You’re Injured During Overtime Hours

Report The Accident To Your Employer

As soon as you’re out of any danger, tell your supervisor about what happened within 30 days of the accident. If you don’t do this, your claim is much more likely to be denied. Employers are also legally required to notify their insurance company within 10 days of the incident, so telling them earlier ensures they file paperwork properly and prevents delays.

Write Down The Accident’s Details

Any workers’ comp case needs clear evidence linking your injuries to your job. Write down any relevant details, such as the time, the location, witness statements, or anything unusual about the scene. This evidence can help clarify any doubts about the accident and make it easier to prove your injuries.

Take Photos

Besides written details, photos of the scene paint a clear idea of what happened. Remember to capture where the injury occurred, any surrounding hazards, and the condition of the area at the time. Also, take pictures of the injury itself. These images could serve as powerful evidence that connects your injuries directly to the scene.

Get Medical Help ASAP

If you can, call emergency services immediately. They’ll assess your injuries and tell you if you need further ongoing care. Receiving emergency care also shows insurance companies your injuries were serious and directly linked to the accident.

When You May Need Legal Help

Even with plenty of evidence, your employer and their insurance company may find a way to dispute your claim. If you’re experiencing this issue, working with a lawyer can be your best option. Our New York workers’ compensation attorneys have decades of experience helping delivery drivers and other employees get the compensation they deserve. Please contact us online or at 855-622-7686 to schedule a free consultation today.