How do you know who is liable when you're in a car accident while working? Determining liability is dependent on where you were going and what you were doing while driving, and whether the vehicle is owned by the company you work for or is a personal vehicle, among other factors. However, these would be some of the main factors that can affect who will be held liable after a work-related accident.
It is advised that you speak with an experienced New York car accident lawyer about the particulars of your case and what happened if you were hurt in an accident due to work-related circumstances.
Contact our team at Brandon J. Broderick today and we can help determine who is liable in a work-related accident.
Who is Liable If I'm Driving to Work?
The company you work for is usually not liable if you are involved in a car accident while commuting to and from work. However, the commute could be a part of your company's liability if your car is required as part of your job duties.
A person whose job requires them to visit a customer and gets into an accident while driving there is an example. The employer might be held accountable for the incident in some situations.
Involved in an Accident With A Company Car: Who is Liable?
If you were an employee and were involved in an auto accident while using a company vehicle, your employer would be liable for the crash and be required to provide insurance coverage. There are a few exceptions to this rule, though. The employer might not be responsible if the driver was an employee and driving for personal reasons. Or, if the driver is engaged in criminal behavior without the company's knowledge, such as drinking and driving, the company may not be held responsible if an accident occurs.
In circumstances where a company hired a reckless driver or neglected to properly maintain a company vehicle, they may be held accountable if an accident happens. If a company fabricated safety records or failed to service a company vehicle regularly liability could fall on the company.
Who is Liable If You're Driving For Something Work-Related?
If your employer expected you to use your personal vehicle for work, much like with business vehicles, your commutes while driving in your car could be considered part of your employment.
Determining liability in this scenario depends on whether the employee was conducting business under the company direction and with their permission. Your employer's insurance is likely responsible for the accident if your job description calls for you to travel as part of your duties and you get into an accident while doing this in your personal vehicle.
Brandon J. Broderick Has Experience in Car Accident Claims
If you were injured in a car accident that occurred during the course of your employment, the New York car accident lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick can give you the support you need.
Our team will evaluate and investigate your case to determine what to do next. Call us today, and allow us to alleviate some of your worry. We fight for our clients to get them the best possible resolution in their cases.