Unanimous Decision Will Hold Amazon, Other Bad Employers Accountable for Safety

(WASHINGTON) – Teamsters applaud the U.S. Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling in Montgomery v. Caribe Transport II, LLC., a landmark decision that strengthens accountability for trucking and delivery companies that rely on third-party contractors.

In its opinion, the Court ruled that trucking and delivery companies can be held liable for damages when third-party contractors they hire cause injuries or deaths. The decision makes clear that the Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act (FAAAA) does not shield companies from safety-related lawsuits because they outsource transportation work.

“Until now, Amazon, FedEx, and other bad employers have been able to outsource their legal obligations to third parties because of a loophole in federal law,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “The Teamsters commend the Court for this decision, which will force the largest logistics employers in the country to finally prioritize worker and motorist safety over profits.”

This ruling could empower states and local governments to take action against unsafe delivery practices, particularly in last-mile delivery. Amazon relies on its “Delivery Service Partner” network of third-party contractors to evade responsibility to workers and public safety, while distancing from liability due to unsafe working conditions.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents over 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share via email