In an Accident While Driving a Company Car? Here’s Who Might Be Liable
Company cars are common across many industries, but when an accident happens, figuring out who pays can get tricky. Whether you were injured while driving a work vehicle or caused a crash in one, understanding vicarious liability and insurance coverage is key. Naqvi Injury Law explains how these cases work under Nevada law.
What Is Vicarious Liability?
Vicarious liability means your employer could be held legally responsible if you crash a company vehicle—but only if you were acting within the scope of your job at the time. Running a delivery? Covered. Grabbing lunch for your boss? Possibly covered. Driving to a friend’s house? Likely not covered.
When Are Employees Personally Liable?
You may be personally liable if:
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You were running a personal errand in the company car
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You were breaking the law (e.g., DUI, reckless driving)
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You didn’t have valid insurance coverage for the company vehicle
In those cases, victims could sue you directly, and your personal assets may be at risk if coverage is lacking.
What If You’re the Victim?
If someone else caused the crash while you were in a company car:
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You can file a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance
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If they’re uninsured, you might access workers’ comp or underinsured motorist coverage through your employer
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You can recover damages like medical bills and lost wages, though pain and suffering may not be covered by workers’ comp
How Is Fault Determined?
Insurance adjusters evaluate evidence, review driving records, and often dispute liability. If there’s disagreement—especially about vicarious liability—the case may go to court. That’s why having a skilled attorney is critical.
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a company car accident alone. From insurance claims to employer responsibility, it’s best to have experienced legal guidance.
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