Whether or not you’re liable for a car accident in a company vehicle can depend on various factors. For example, the circumstances of the accident, your position within the company, your employer’s policies, and the laws in your jurisdiction can all play a role. In many cases, if you were driving the company vehicle while performing your employment duties and the accident occurred during that time, your employer’s insurance may cover the damages under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior and vicarious liability.
However, if negligence or misconduct on your part contributed to the accident or you were driving the company vehicle for non-work-related purposes, you could potentially be held personally liable and obligated to compensate the victim through your own car insurance.
What Happens if Someone Hits You While You’re Driving a Company Vehicle
If someone hits your company car and causes the accident, they are liable for damages. Report the accident to your employer, and they will likely file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurer.
What Happens if Someone Hits Your Car While They’re Driving a Company Vehicle
Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to seek compensation from the employer or the employee’s insurance. If someone driving a company vehicle hits your car, file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible and speak with an experienced car accident attorney at Henson Fuerst for free to review your rights and options.
What to Do After an Accident in a Company Car or Truck
If you’ve been involved in an accident while driving a company car, here’s what to do:
- Ensure everyone’s safety. First, ensure everyone involved in the accident is safe and check for injuries. If there are any injuries, seek medical attention immediately.
- Contact emergency services. If necessary, call the police or emergency services to the accident scene. They can help document the incident and provide assistance.
- Exchange information. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
- Document the scene. Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to both vehicles, any injuries, and the surrounding area. This documentation may be helpful for insurance claims or legal proceedings.
- Report the accident. Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible.
- Speak with a car accident lawyer. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may want to consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and options.
Remember to stay calm and cooperative throughout the process and to advocate for yourself so you receive fair treatment and compensation for any damages or injuries.
Can You Get Fired for Crashing a Company Car in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, employment laws generally follow the principle of “at-will employment,” which means that an employer can terminate an employee for any reason or no reason as long as it’s not discriminatory and doesn’t violate an employment contract or agreement. Therefore, if you were at fault for an accident in a company car, your employer may have grounds to terminate your employment – especially if the accident damages the company’s property or reputation.
Whether or not you’ll face termination for crashing a company car depends on various factors, including your employment contract, the company’s policies and procedures regarding accidents, the severity of the accident, and your overall performance and history with the company. It’s essential to communicate openly and honestly with your employer about the accident, cooperate with any investigations or procedures they may have, and take responsibility for your actions for your best chance at retaining employment.
Experienced Car Accident Attorneys in North Carolina Who Put You First
At Henson Fuerst, we know that the devastation of a car accident does not stop after the initial impact. When you’re injured in an accident with a company car, it could leave you feeling especially confused and helpless. Our well-versed North Carolina car accident lawyers know how to proceed with the claims process after an accident with a company vehicle and are ready to step in and give you our individualized attention and support. We will listen to your story and navigate the aftermath of your accident by your side, holding the employee or employer accountable and allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Contact us today by submitting a form below or calling our office at 919-781-1107 for a free consultation.
