In today’s society, many jobs require some degree of driving. With this, many employees find it difficult to set boundaries between their professional and personal lives. Employees who use their personal vehicles to perform job-related activities or operate a company-issued car should be aware that work-related crashes are alarmingly common. If you are in this situation, you likely won’t know how to proceed and fear losing your job. Determining liability depends on where you were going and what you were doing while driving, among other factors. Please continue reading to learn who may be liable for a work-related accident, if you’re eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits, and how a talented Prince George’s County Work Injury Lawyer can help you navigate your legal options.
Are Employers Liable for an Employee Injury in a Work-Related Car Accident in Maryland?
If you are an employee involved in an auto accident while using a company or personal vehicle to perform work-related tasks, your employer would be liable for the crash. This is due to vicarious liability. In short, your employer is responsible for any negligent act you commit while on the clock. An employer can only be liable if you’re considered an employee, not an independent contractor. However, it’s crucial to note that certain exceptions exist to vicarious liability. The only exceptions are if the worker was operating the vehicle while engaging in criminal behavior such as drunk driving or performing a personal, non-work-related errand. When this is the case, the case would be handled like any other auto accident.
Nevertheless, another instance where an employer is liable for an employee’s injuries is if you were injured in a car accident because of a mechanical failure due to an inadequately maintained vehicle. This is because employers are responsible for ensuring their work-issued cars are safe to drive.
Am I Eligible For Workers’ Compensation Benefits following a work-related car accident?
Every employer with one or more employees in Maryland must provide workers’ compensation coverage. Workers’ compensation is an insurance that provides cash benefits and medical care for workers injured or become ill as a direct result of their job. If you were injured in a work-related car accident, your damages would likely be covered under a workers’ compensation claim. However, your injuries or illness must have occurred in the course and scope of your employment.
If you were seriously injured in a car accident that occurred while you were on the clock, please don’t hesitate to contact a trusted Prince George’s County work injury lawyer who can help you navigate this difficult time. At Timian & Fawcett, LLC, we are prepared to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your case.
