This archive report was first published on 5 September 2019.
Amazon's delivery network is a complex web of contractors and drivers, with the company exerting significant control over the logistics of delivery. According to work orders obtained from contractors in eight states, Amazon requires that 999 out of 1,000 deliveries arrive on time.
Published on September 5, 2019, Amazon has repeatedly claimed in court that it is not responsible for the actions of its contractors, citing agreements that require them to 'defend, indemnify and hold harmless Amazon.' An operations manager for Amazon testified in Chicago that the company signs such agreements with all its 'delivery service partners,' who assume the liability and the responsibility for legal costs.
Amazon's agreements with its contractors cover 'all loss or damage to personal property or bodily harm including death.' The company has been known to vigorously enforce the terms of these agreements, suing contractors in New Jersey and California when they failed to pay Amazon's legal bills in suits brought by injured parties.
For the family of Stacey Hayes Curry, who was killed by a driver delivering Amazon packages in San Diego, the company's actions are particularly disturbing. 'It's sure nice to get something in two days for free,' said Tim Hauck, Curry's brother. 'But this idea that they've walled themselves off from responsibility is disturbing.'
