Can You Seek Damages if a Company Vehicle Causes Your Accident?
Click For Free ConsultationLegally Reviewed By: Robert M. Knowles
Attorney & Partner At Knowles Law Firm
If you’re involved in an accident caused by a company vehicle, you may wonder whether you can seek damages. In many cases, the company could be held responsible for the actions of its employees, meaning you could pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Understanding how liability works in these cases is crucial, and Knowles Law Firm can help guide you through the process. With over 55 years of experience, we have successfully helped clients secure multi-million dollar settlements in complex cases like those involving company vehicles. Our commitment to resolving cases quickly and fairly sets us apart, ensuring your case receives the attention it deserves. We understand the stakes involved and work diligently to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.
Can You Get Compensation if a Company Vehicle Was Involved in Your Accident?
Generally speaking, yes, you can receive compensation for losses and injuries after a company vehicle accident. However, the legal process may be different depending on whether the employee is on the clock. Driving a company vehicle does not automatically mean the company is responsible for all of a driver’s actions.
More specifically, you can hold a company liable if one of their employees — while on the clock and driving to complete job-related tasks — causes an accident resulting in your injury. But just because an employee is not being paid does not automatically mean you cannot receive compensation. Instead of taking legal action against the company, you would take legal action against the individual who caused the accident.
Some victims may find taking action against a company more beneficial, as the larger entity is more likely to have sufficientinsurance coverage for accidents. While all drivers are legally required to have insurance coverage for their own vehicular accidents, some may have less coverage or break the law by driving without insurance. Taking action against a driver rather than a company may result in lower compensation.
How Can You Prove Liability in a Company Vehicle Accident?
To receive compensation after a company vehicle accident, you must be able to demonstrate that the company is liable for your losses. Alternatively, if you take action against an individual who happens to be driving a company vehicle, you must demonstrate that person’s responsibility for your losses.
To prove liability and collect compensation in your company vehicle accident, you must demonstrate that your claim meets the following requirements:
- You were owed a duty of care, meaning the driver and the company are each responsible for following expectations and laws that facilitate safety. For example, all drivers must obey speed limits, maintain their vehicles to be road-safe, and avoid distractions.
- The duty of care was breached, as the responsible party failed to follow laws and best practices to maintain safety. A driver may breach their duty of care if they drive while drowsy, and a company may breach this duty by forcing a driver to work longer than legally permissible.
- Your injuries were caused by another party’s negligence or breach of duty. For example, you can generally prove this is true by presenting medical records created shortly after the incident.
- You’re facing losses due to the accident, including medical bills, property damage, loss of wages, disability costs, or anything else relevant.
If you need assistance proving that you deserve compensation in your claim, an attorney from Knowles Law Firm can help. We can assist by collecting and analyzing evidence related to your claim, leveling the playing field against other attorneys, and holding liable parties accountable. We’re also prepared to assist victims in numerous different ways. Please reach out to us at Knowles Law Firm if you’re interested in retaining our services.
How Knowles Law Firm Can Help You Seek Compensation
At Knowles Law Firm, we understand the complexities of company vehicle cases and have the experience to handle these challenging claims. With over 55 years of experience and a history of multi-million dollar settlements, we are committed to confidently helping our clients navigate the legal process. We take pride in working diligently to ensure your case moves forward quickly and fairly while holding companies and individuals accountable for the harm they cause.
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a company vehicle, we may be able to help you seek the compensation you deserve. Our team is prepared to investigate the details of your case, gather the necessary evidence, and negotiate with the liable parties. You can access a free consultation with a qualified attorney when you call (402) 431-9000 or complete our contact form.