Deliver drivers, warehouse workers and truckers are among the many essential workers on the front lines of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, loading essential supplies and taking to the roads to help keep the economy going and to provide all of us with access to food, goods, and critical supplies.
As more and more people practice social distancing recommendations and stay safe at home, many Americans are shopping online – creating an increase in the overall volume of packages being shipped out and deliveries being made every day.
While the World Health Organization has said the threat of contracting COVID-19 from a package is low, delivery drivers, truckers, and warehouse workers are still at risk of being exposed to the Coronavirus while at work and while making deliveries.
Essential workers ask for protection and hazard pay
In March, some Amazon warehouse workers walked off the job and called for more safeguards after colleagues were diagnosed with COVID-19. Instances of the virus have also been reported at more than 19 Amazon warehouses in the U.S., prompting the company to prioritize deliveries of essential goods and ask delivery drivers to disinfect their trucks before and after each shift.
UPS and FedEx employees have also voiced concerns about how they’ll get paid if they contract the virus, while other essential workers are calling for an increase in wages or hazard pay due to the risk associated with working in public during the pandemic.
Along with working in close quarters to load packages, delivery drivers and truckers are carrying goods in and out of communities that have been locked down due to COVID-19. Employees for companies such as Instacart also have concerns as they shop for customers in heavily trafficked grocery stores, putting their own health at risk.
Can you get workers’ comp for COVID-19?
Workers’ compensation is supposed to help cover the cost of any necessary medical expenses that arise from a work injury or occupational disease. If you come in contact with the Coronavirus while you’re at work, you may be entitled to certain wage and medical benefits through workers’ compensation.
Even if you think your claim is straightforward, you may face challenges trying to get all the benefits you’re entitled to. That’s why if you think you’ve had occupational exposure to COVID-19, you should contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney right away to protect your rights.
Let our law firm help you
At Shebell & Shebell, our New Jersey workers’ compensation lawyers realize the impact COVID-19 can have on you and your family. During these uncertain times, we want new and existing clients to know that we are there for you if you need us. Together, we will overcome this.
Our law firm has been fighting to protect the rights of injured workers since 1927 and knows what it takes to get you the benefits you need and deserve. See what an experienced New Jersey workers’ compensation attorney can do for you. Contact us today for a free consultation. We have offices conveniently located in Freehold and Shrewsbury and are fully capable of handling every aspect of your claim remotely.
