Illinois Amazon Truck Accident Lawyer
Top-Rated Injury Lawyers For Victims Struck By Amazon Delivery Vehicles Throughout Illinois
At John J. Malm & Associates, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating truck accidents can be—especially when large commercial vehicles like Amazon delivery vans and semi-trucks are involved. With decades of experience representing injured individuals across Illinois, our firm is committed to helping victims of truck accidents seek justice and recover full compensation for their losses. As Amazon continues to expand its logistics footprint in Illinois, accidents involving its delivery vehicles have become more frequent—and more dangerous. Whether you’ve been injured in a crash with an Amazon truck in Chicago, Naperville, Joliet, or anywhere else in the state, we are here to advocate for you.
“Amazon delivery trucks are everywhere in Illinois, and unfortunately, so are the risks they bring. Whether it’s due to driver fatigue, delivery quotas, or negligent maintenance, these accidents can have devastating consequences. Our firm is here to stand up for victims and ensure they’re treated fairly—not left to fight massive corporations alone.” — John J. Malm, Naperville Amazon truck accident lawyer
The Rise of Amazon Trucks—and the Risk They Bring
Amazon’s delivery network has grown rapidly over the last decade. With multiple fulfillment centers, last-mile delivery stations, and contractor-operated fleets throughout Illinois, it’s now common to see Amazon Prime vans and semi-trailers on highways and residential streets. Unfortunately, this increase in vehicles has also led to a rise in accidents.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 4,773 accidents involving large trucks in the state in 2022, including 129 fatal crashes and more than 1,500 injury crashes. While not all of these involved Amazon vehicles, the company’s growing delivery presence contributes significantly to the total number of truck-related collisions statewide.
Amazon uses third-party contractors—called Delivery Service Partners (DSPs)—to operate many of its vans and trucks. While this may reduce Amazon’s direct liability, it complicates accident claims and can leave injured victims confused about who is responsible.
Common Causes of Amazon Truck Accidents
There are several reasons why Amazon truck accidents are occurring more frequently in Illinois:
1. Delivery Quotas and Time Pressures
Amazon drivers are under intense pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. Some drivers report being assigned 300 to 400 packages per day. This urgency can lead to reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, running stop signs, failing to yield, or unsafe backing—particularly in residential neighborhoods.
2. Inexperienced and Overworked Drivers
Many Amazon delivery service partners employ drivers with little commercial driving experience. Some workers report receiving only a few days of training before being placed on delivery routes. Long hours and demanding schedules can result in fatigue, which is a leading factor in many truck crashes.
3. Unsafe Parking and Unsignaled Stops
Because Amazon vans frequently deliver in urban areas, drivers often park in unsafe locations or stop abruptly without proper signaling. There have been numerous reports of Amazon trucks stopped in active lanes of traffic without hazard lights, leading to collisions and near-misses.
4. Vehicle Maintenance Failures
Delivery vehicles are subjected to heavy use every day. If the contracting company fails to inspect and maintain tires, brakes, or other critical systems, mechanical failures can lead to serious accidents.
5. Theft and Carjackings
Amazon delivery vans have been increasingly targeted in thefts and carjackings in the Chicago area. In one 2022 incident, a hijacked Amazon van struck several vehicles, critically injuring one person. In January 2025, a stolen Amazon vehicle crashed on I-57 in Markham, resulting in a fatality and multiple serious injuries.
Legal Challenges in Amazon Truck Accident Cases
Who Can Be Held Liable After an Amazon Truck Crash?
Amazon often attempts to avoid direct responsibility by stating that its delivery drivers work for independent contractors. However, under certain legal doctrines like “vicarious liability” and “apparent agency,” courts may still find Amazon responsible—especially if they exercised control over the driver’s actions or delivery schedule.
Potentially liable parties may include:
- The driver (if negligent)
- The Delivery Service Partner (DSP)
- Amazon (in some cases)
- A vehicle maintenance company
- Other negligent drivers on the road
Insurance Considerations
Amazon delivery service partners are required to carry commercial insurance policies, often providing up to $1 million in liability coverage. However, navigating these policies can be difficult for injured individuals, especially when multiple companies point fingers at each other to avoid paying.
At John J. Malm & Associates, we have the knowledge and resources to investigate these complex company relationships, identify the responsible parties, and pursue maximum compensation for our clients.
Common Injuries in Amazon Delivery Accidents
Because of the size and weight of Amazon trucks and delivery vans, collisions often result in serious injuries. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones
- Crush injuries
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Burns (from vehicle fires)
- Psychological trauma (especially in violent crashes or hijackings)
Victims of Amazon truck accidents often require long-term medical care and may be unable to work for extended periods. Our firm works with medical experts, vocational specialists, and economists to fully value these claims and ensure victims are not shortchanged.
Preventing Amazon Delivery Vehicle Accidents
While drivers can’t always avoid reckless delivery trucks accidents, some proactive safety tips include:
- Stay alert around stopped vans and avoid sudden lane changes near delivery vehicles.
- Be cautious when passing Amazon trucks on narrow residential streets.
- Report any unsafe behavior by Amazon drivers to local authorities or Amazon’s safety team.
- If you’re driving near an Amazon warehouse or delivery station, anticipate higher traffic volumes.
Amazon and its contractors can also improve safety by:
- Increasing driver training
- Reducing package quotas
- Enforcing strict maintenance protocols
- Equipping vans with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking
Frequently Asked Questions About Amazon Truck Accidents in Illinois
Q: Who do I sue if I’m hit by an Amazon truck?
A: You may have a claim against the delivery driver, the contractor, and in some cases, Amazon itself. An experienced Illinois truck accident attorney can help identify all responsible parties.
Q: What if the driver fled the scene or the truck was stolen?
A: Even in hit-and-run or theft-related cases, you may be able to file a claim through your uninsured motorist coverage or seek compensation from Amazon if their security practices were negligent.
Q: Does Amazon carry insurance for these accidents?
A: Amazon requires its delivery service partners to carry commercial insurance, but the specifics depend on the contractor. Amazon may also carry excess liability insurance in certain situations.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and ensure your claim is filed before the statute of limitations runs.
Q: What should I do after an accident with an Amazon vehicle?
A: Call 911, seek medical attention, take photos of the scene, get contact info from witnesses, and avoid giving recorded statements to Amazon or its insurers without legal advice.
Contact the Award-Winning Illinois Amazon Truck Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving an Amazon truck or delivery van in Illinois, don’t try to handle the case on your own. These claims are often complex, and Amazon’s legal and insurance teams are trained to protect the company—not you.
At John J. Malm & Associates, we have successfully represented victims of truck accidents throughout Illinois. Our team will thoroughly investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and pursue full compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Call us today at (630) 527-4177 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery—and hold Amazon accountable for dangerous delivery practices.