Workers’ Compensation – What to Do if Injured Delivering Packages in Nevada

Package delivery drivers perform some of the most physically demanding work in today’s economy. Whether employed by UPS, FedEx, USPS, Amazon, or another delivery service, drivers face daily risks such as lifting heavy packages, navigating traffic, dealing with unsafe property conditions, and exposure to extreme weather. Unfortunately, injuries on the job are common. In Nevada, an injured worker can make a claim for workers’ comp benefits regardless of fault (i.e., even if the accident was caused by the employer). The benefits available include payment of medical expenses related to treatment of the workplace injury or illness, temporary disability benefits, and permanent disability benefits.

If you have been hurt while delivering packages, it is important to know what steps to take to protect both your health and your right to workers’ compensation benefits. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

1. Get Medical Care Immediately

Your health comes first. If you’re seriously injured, go to the emergency room right away. For non-emergencies, Nevada law allows your employer to direct you to an approved doctor for treatment.

Seeking immediate care not only protects your well-being but also creates the medical records you’ll need to support your workers’ comp claim.

2. Notify Your Employer Without Delay

Most states have strict deadlines for reporting workplace injuries. Report the injury to your supervisor or manager as soon as possible and provide a clear account of how the incident occurred. Failing to give timely notice may jeopardize your ability to receive benefits.

3. Document the Details

Accurate records are vital in a workers’ compensation claim. Insurance companies often look for ways to dispute or minimize claims, so the more evidence you can gather, the stronger your case will be. If possible, collect the following:

• Photographs of the accident scene, your delivery vehicle, unsafe conditions (such as broken stairs, wet surfaces, or extreme heat exposure), and any visible injuries.
• Copies of your written injury report (Form C-1 in Nevada) to show when and how you reported the injury.
• Names and contact information of witnesses — coworkers, customers, or even bystanders who saw the incident or the hazardous condition.
• Medical bills, treatment notes, and test results that document your diagnosis, treatment, and recovery process.

You may also want to:

• Keep a personal injury journal where you record your daily pain levels, limitations, and how the injury affects your ability to work or perform daily tasks.
• Save all communication with your employer, supervisors, or the insurance company, including emails, texts, or letters.
• Track lost wages or missed shifts caused by the injury.

This evidence can help establish the legitimacy of your claim, prevent disputes later in the process, and demonstrate the full impact the injury has had on your work and life. In Nevada, where strict deadlines apply and disputes are common, thorough documentation can make or break your case.

4. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Delivery drivers who are employees of companies such as UPS, FedEx, or USPS are typically entitled to workers’ compensation coverage. This insurance provides medical care and wage replacement while you are unable to work.

However, workers driving for Amazon Flex or other gig platforms may face additional challenges due to “independent contractor” classifications. These cases are complex and may require legal assistance to determine whether benefits are available.

5. Follow All Medical Instructions

Once you’ve filed your workers’ compensation claim, your medical treatment becomes a key part of both your recovery and your eligibility for benefits. Insurance companies often look for reasons to reduce or cut off payments, and failing to follow your doctor’s orders can give them that excuse.

To protect your health and your case, make sure you:

• Attend all medical appointments — missing even one visit could be used against you as a sign you’re not truly injured.
• Take prescribed medications and follow dosage instructions.
• Comply with physical therapy or rehabilitation programs if your doctor requires them.
• Respect all work restrictions such as lifting limits, reduced driving hours, or modified duties. Ignoring restrictions can worsen your injury and raise questions about your claim.
• Keep detailed records of your treatments, medications, and recovery progress. A personal journal tracking pain levels, mobility, and daily limitations can be valuable evidence.

In Nevada, your treating physician also plays an important role in determining when — and if — you’re able to return to work. By fully complying with medical advice, you show that you are serious about recovery, reduce the risk of reinjury, and strengthen your workers’ compensation case.

6. Protect Your Rights with Legal Support

An experienced Nevada workers’ compensation lawyer can make a major difference in your case. An attorney helps gather and organize documentation, ensure paperwork is filed correctly and on time, and address issues that could lead to claim denials — such as gaps in medical evidence or reporting mistakes.

If your claim is denied, a lawyer can guide you through the appeals process and represent you against the insurance company. Their goal is to secure the full benefits you’re entitled to, including medical care, lost wages, and rehabilitation services.

Attorney Jay Short, Your Dedicated Workers’ Compensation Advocate

Attorney Jay Short is dedicated to helping you recover benefits for work-related injuries and illnesses. Specializing in workers’ compensation, we fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us anytime, day or night, at (775) 786-2006 for a free consultation, or reach out to us online for assistance.