What if I crashed the company car?

Personal Injury Lawyer

Have you been involved in an accident that involved the company car? If so, the following information may help you to understand what you should do, and whether or not you should consult a workers’ compensation lawyer. 

The average American is expected to be in three to four accidents in their life. This is true regardless of whether or not you are in your own car or a company car. If you are driving a company car, and are in an accident, you might expect everything to be covered by your company’s insurance. 

In some cases, you could be liable for the injuries or damages, particularly when anyone else involved files a claim or lawsuit. If you suffered injuries while driving a company car, you will likely receive workers’ compensation insurance. If you don’t know whether or not this is true, you are encouraged to call a workers’ comp lawyer. 

What You Need to Know First When You Are the At Fault Driver

Following any serious accident with a company car, you might be eager to determine whether or not you, the employee driving the company car, will be personally responsible. 

When the Company is Responsible

The relationship between you, the employee, and your employer will fall under a legal doctrine known as the respondeat superior. This is a Latin term that means employers are responsible for the actions of their employees as long as they are acting within the scope of their job duty. This responsibility typically includes paying for any injuries or damages that are caused by an employee who was driving a company car. 

When the Employee is Responsible For an Accident Involving a Company Car

There are some situations in which an employer’s insurance might not cover the employees’ negligent actions. These include:

Criminal Activity – If the employee was engaging in any criminal activity, they may be exempt from indemnification. For example, if the employee was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and caused an accident in the company car, they can be liable for any injuries or damages. Workers’ compensation might also not be available. 

Frolicing Around – If you were found to be frolicing around, or in other words using the company car to run personal errands or engage in other things that are against company policy, you may be liable for all damages. 

Independent Contractor – If you have been found to be using a company car to participate in independent contractor jobs, like a pizza delivery driver or rideshare driver, and you cause an accident, you may be solely responsible. 

If you were involved in an accident while driving a company car, the best thing you can do is to speak with a work injury lawyer for further guidance and advice. 

When You Might Want a Legal Advocate

Accidents can happen to anyone and at any time. You might be anxious and upset following a collision in a company car, especially if others were injured. Even if you are at fault for the accident, you deserve to be legally protected. Whether you need help from a lawyer who can guide you through the process of a lawsuit, or you are being denied workers’ compensation, call a workers compensation attorney Brooklyn trusts, like from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen P.C. A workers’ comp lawyer is standing by and ready to speak with you.