For delivery drivers working with Amazon, USPS, FedEx, or other courier services, daily routes often involve more than just facing traffic or weather conditions. A hidden danger many drivers face is the risk of dog attacks. Every year, thousands of delivery workers are bitten or injured by dogs while simply trying to do their jobs.
At The McCallister Law Firm, P.C., in Kansas City, Missouri, we help clients in the delivery profession, understand their legal rights, employer responsibilities, and preventative measures. Here, we’ll outline the key legal protections for delivery drivers who are injured by dog attacks, steps to take after an incident, and how a personal injury lawyer can help.
Why Delivery Drivers Are at High Risk for Dog Attacks
Delivery workers are among the most vulnerable to dog attacks for several reasons.
Their jobs require them to approach countless homes each day, many of which have dogs that are unrestrained or poorly trained. Combined with unpredictable environments and tight delivery schedules, their risk of encountering a hostile animal is significantly higher than most.
Frequent interaction with residential properties: Most deliveries are made directly to homes, where dogs are more likely to roam freely or be protective of their territory.
Unfamiliar environments: Drivers rarely know if there is a dog on the property, and often must enter without warning.
Time constraints: Couriers are under pressure to meet delivery quotas, reducing the time they can take to cautiously approach homes or avoid risky situations.
Even well-trained dogs can react aggressively to a perceived intruder, and delivery drivers are often seen as just that. The presence of a uniform, a vehicle, or the sound of approaching footsteps can trigger a territorial response in many animals. For those working in delivery, every doorstep presents a new and potentially dangerous unknown.
What to Do If You're Bitten by a Dog on the Job
If you're a delivery driver who has been attacked or bitten by a dog while working, taking the right steps immediately after the incident can protect your health and your legal rights. It's important to act quickly and thoroughly for your safety and to build a solid foundation for any future legal action.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even a minor bite can lead to serious complications like infections or nerve damage. Rabies and tetanus are also concerns, especially if the dog’s vaccination history is unknown. Immediate medical attention not only protects your health but also creates documentation of your injuries, which is essential for insurance and legal claims.
Report the Incident
Report the attack to your employer as soon as possible and follow established internal protocols. It’s also important to file a report with local animal control or the police, as this creates an official record of the incident that may support your claim. Prompt reporting also helps prevent future incidents by alerting other delivery workers.
Gather Evidence
Document the scene with photos of the dog, your injuries, the property where the attack occurred, and any warning signs (or lack thereof). If there were any witnesses, get their names and contact information. Save all related medical records, receipts, and written communication with your employer, as this evidence can support your claim and help prove liability.
Identify the Dog Owner
If possible, identify the dog’s owner at the scene or through nearby witnesses or neighbors. This information is essential if you plan to file a claim against their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Knowing who owns the dog also helps animal control take proper steps to investigate and, if necessary, quarantine the animal.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Dog attacks can lead to long-term injuries and emotional trauma, which may not be fully covered by workers’ compensation. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you determine your eligibility for additional compensation through third-party claims. At The McCallister Law Firm, P.C., our lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
Taking the right steps after a dog attack isn’t just about treating injuries; it’s also about protecting your legal rights and future well-being. As a delivery driver, you face unique risks. By acting quickly after a dog attack and consulting with a qualified personal injury lawyer, you can make sure that your case is handled with care and diligence.
Common Injuries Caused by Dog Attacks
Dog attacks can result in a range of serious injuries, some of which may require long-term medical treatment or even surgery. These injuries often go beyond surface wounds, potentially affecting a person's ability to work, drive, or perform everyday tasks. For delivery drivers, these consequences can be especially disruptive. Common injuries include:
Common injuries caused by dog attacks include puncture wounds and lacerations, nerve damage, infections, and emotional trauma or PTSD. Dogs may lunge at an individual, causing broken bones or facial injuries that can be extensive and require extended recovery time. Infections can also result from wounds, since dogs' mouths harbor a multitude of bacteria.
Even if physical wounds heal, the psychological effects of a dog attack can persist. These invisible injuries can affect a person’s confidence, concentration, and overall mental well-being. Without proper treatment and support, they may lead to prolonged time off work or a complete career change for some victims.
Preventative Measures for Delivery Drivers
While not all dog attacks can be prevented, delivery drivers can significantly reduce their risk by staying aware and taking precautionary steps. Always remain alert for signs of dogs on the property, such as barking, dog toys, fences, or warning signs like "Beware of Dog." Avoid making direct eye contact with unfamiliar dogs, as they may interpret this as a threat.
Using tools and creating barriers can also help protect you in an encounter. Carrying dog repellent spray (if permitted by your employer), a whistle, or even using a clipboard or mail satchel to create distance can be effective deterrents. Never run from a dog, as this may trigger their instinct to chase.
If you encounter an unrestrained dog, avoid approaching the door; instead, use the mailbox or a secure location for the delivery and alert the homeowner to the issue. Taking these steps not only helps protect your safety but also reduces the risk of liability for both you and your employer.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Working through the aftermath of a dog attack can be overwhelming. You may be dealing with physical pain, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills, all while trying to return to work or recover. In these situations, having a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A personal injury lawyer can:
Investigate the attack and gather supporting evidence
Determine liability based on local laws
File claims against homeowners’ insurance policies
Assist with workers’ compensation paperwork or appeals
Negotiate fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress
Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. This makes sure you have access to legal representation even if you're struggling financially after the attack. With the right legal support, you can focus on healing while your attorney works to secure justice for your situation.
Speak With a Personal Injury Attorney Now
Delivery drivers play a crucial role in modern society, but they often face the hidden danger of dog attacks. If you’re a delivery driver, it’s important to understand your legal rights and take steps to protect yourself. If you’ve been injured in a dog attack while on the job, The McCallister Law Firm, P.C., can help. We serve clients in Kansas City, Missouri and beyond. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
