In today’s world of more online purchases than ever before, we are also seeing more and more delivery drivers. It only makes sense. UPS, FedEx, Amazon, GrubHub, Uber Eats, and others are constantly hiring delivery drivers to keep up with the cascade of online orders. But, along with increased deliveries and delivery drivers come increasing incidences of dog bites.
Dog bites, unfortunately, are a negative part of being a delivery driver. But, to compensate for their injury, can a delivery driver sue the owner if they get bitten by a dog? They do, after all, have a right to be on the property because they are providing a service. Within their line of work, they are performing necessary duties. So, in addition to suing the owner of the dog that bit them, they may be able to open a claim for workers’ compensation.
Who Is Affected?
Some of the occupations that may encounter dog bites/attacks are as follows:
- Firefighters, ambulance attendants, police, and other first responders
- Internet and cable installers
- Meter readers
- Flower delivery personnel
- Landscapers
- Drivers for meal deliveries such as DoorDash, GrubHub, Uber Eats, etc.
- USPS workers
- Drivers who deliver packages through UPS, FedEx, Amazon, etc.
Suing Responsible Parties and/or Dog Owners
If, as the result of the dog bite or attack, a person sustains emotional, mental, or physical injuries, the dog’s owner is responsible for those damages. Postal carriers and delivery drivers have a lawful right to do their jobs and, therefore, be on the premises of homes. If a dog attacks and it has not been provoked, in order to pursue just compensation, the delivery person has the right to sue the owner.
Workers’ Compensation Versus A Lawsuit
Lost wages and medical expenses would, generally speaking, be covered by workers’ compensation. Emotional distress and/or pain and suffering – and other economic losses – would fall under a lawsuit against the owner of the dog in the case of a dog attack or dog bite. If, after the dog attack event, the driver becomes fearful of performing their job duties, this could be particularly relevant.
Keeping Delivery Drivers Safe
If you are the owner of a dog, help keep delivery drivers safe. Keep your dog in a separate room or a kennel to prevent an attack when you’re opening the door, signing for a delivery, etc. Owning a pet is a serious responsibility and should be treated as such.
Count On Corradino & Papa, LLC for Your Dog Bite Case
Have you been bitten by a dog? If so, you may deserve compensation. To help you mount a case, the attorneys at Corradino & Papa, LLC will analyze the facts regarding your incident, investigate the dog’s ownership, examine the medical history of the dog, help with your medical records, and more.
When it comes to competency in handling dog bite cases, the attorneys at Corradino & Papa, LLC excel. To maximize the compensation you receive for damages such as medical costs, we work in conjunction with a network of investigators, support staff, and medical experts.
Take the first step toward receiving your much-deserved compensation – contact us today.