What Happens If You Are Injured While Driving for Work?

If you are injured in an accident while driving for work, there are a number of factors to take into consideration when determining liability. Depending on the circumstances, you, your employer, or the other party in the accident may be held responsible. Car accidents that occur on the job can be quite complex, so it’s in your best interests to talk to an experienced lawyer.

Call Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers today at 905-522-9799 to schedule your free and confidential consultation. We will be happy to listen to your case and help you determine the best course of action going forward.

If You Caused an Accident While Driving for Work

If you were driving for work and caused an accident, both you and your employer may be held responsible. Vicarious liability means that an employer can be held responsible for accidents caused by their employees while on the job. Often, vicarious liability kicks in when your own insurance isn’t enough to cover all damages, such as when the accident involves multiple parties or highly expensive cars.

Vicarious liability only applies if you are actually on the job while driving. It will not apply if you are:

• Commuting
• Running a personal errand
• Committing a crime
• Driving home after finishing a work-related task

Even if you are in a company car, if you are not actively driving for a work-related duty, you will be fully responsible if you cause an accident.

If Someone Else Caused an Accident While You Were Driving for Work

If you were the victim of someone else’s negligence while you were driving for work, you have a few options for obtaining compensation for your injuries. You can sue the parties responsible for the accident, and you may be able to obtain workers’ compensation as well.

Workers’ compensation is available to most employees if they are injured while performing work-related duties, including driving for work. Once again, commuting or running personal errands are excluded. Workers’ compensation can help to make up for lost wages while you are unable to work, but they are capped and do not cover intangibles such as pain and suffering.

A lawsuit against the party or parties who caused your accident will be the best way to obtain the most compensation. Although you will likely receive a settlement offer from insurance, you should not accept it until you have consulted us. We can advise you as you whether or not the offer is fair. Insurance companies often try to lowball their initial offers in order to protect their bottom line, rather than your health. We can let you know what your case is really worth and how much you are likely to get if you opt for a lawsuit.

Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation

If you have been in a car accident while driving for work, don’t hesitate to contact Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers at 905-522-9799 today for your complimentary and confidential consultation. We serve clients in Hamilton, Brantford, Stoney Creek, Burlington, and other nearby areas of Ontario.