If you’ve been involved in an accident while driving a company vehicle, you may be unsure of your rights and the steps to take. Such incidents can lead to complex questions about liability, workers’ compensation, and employer responsibility. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we have decades of experience helping workers across New York navigate these challenging situations. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the compensation and support you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a company vehicle accident, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and protect your rights.
Liability in a Company Car Accident
Determining liability in a company car accident can be complex, as it often depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident. In general, if you were performing work-related duties at the time of the accident—such as making deliveries, attending a meeting, or running errands for your employer—the responsibility for damages and injuries may fall on your employer or their insurance policy. This is because, under the legal principle of respondeat superior, employers are often liable for their employees’ actions performed within the scope of employment.
However, there are exceptions. If the accident occurred while you were engaged in personal activities, such as running a non-work-related errand or deviating significantly from your assigned route, you could be held personally liable for damages. Additionally, cases involving reckless or illegal behavior, like driving under the influence or excessive speeding, may complicate matters and result in shared liability.
Understanding who is responsible is critical, as it affects your ability to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Whether the accident falls under workers’ compensation or a third-party liability claim, consulting with an experienced attorney can clarify your rights and ensure you pursue all available avenues for recovery.
At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we’re here to help you navigate these legal complexities. If you’ve been involved in a company car accident, contact us today to discuss your case and protect your financial future.
What Happens If I Get in a Company Vehicle Accident?
Being involved in a company vehicle accident can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure about your next steps. The actions you take immediately following the accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
- Report the Accident: Notify your employer about the accident as soon as possible. Failing to report the incident promptly could jeopardize your ability to file a workers’ compensation claim. Additionally, you may need to file an official accident report with the authorities, depending on the severity of the incident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to seek medical care. Documenting your injuries is vital for both your health and your workers’ compensation or insurance claim.
- Document the Scene: If you are able, gather evidence at the accident scene. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect the contact information of any witnesses, as their statements may support your case.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: If you were performing work-related duties at the time of the accident, you are likely eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and other costs related to your recovery.
- Consider Third-Party Liability: In some cases, you may have a claim against a third party, such as another driver who caused the accident. A personal injury claim could allow you to recover additional compensation for damages not covered by workers’ compensation.
Navigating the aftermath of a company vehicle accident can be complex, with overlapping legal issues involving workers’ compensation and liability. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the process and advocate for your rights. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Who is Liable If the Other Party Was At Fault?
If another party caused your company vehicle accident, they may be held liable for the damages. In such cases, you may have the right to file a third-party personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. This claim can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages not fully covered by workers’ compensation.
However, even if the other driver is at fault, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance may still provide benefits if the accident occurred while you were performing work-related duties. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning it can cover your medical bills and a portion of your lost wages regardless of who caused the accident.
Pursuing both a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party personal injury lawsuit can be complex. The two processes involve different legal standards and timelines, and it’s important to handle them correctly to maximize your recovery. For example, any compensation you receive through a third-party claim may need to account for reimbursement of workers’ compensation benefits already paid.
At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we can help you navigate these complexities. If the other party was at fault, our skilled attorneys will work to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve from all available sources.
What Do Company Insurance Policies Typically Cover?
Company insurance policies are designed to protect both the employer and the employee in the event of a company vehicle accident. The specific coverage provided can vary depending on the policy, but generally, it includes:
- Liability Coverage: This covers damages or injuries caused to third parties if you were at fault for the accident while performing work-related duties. It typically pays for the other party’s medical bills, property damage, and legal fees if a lawsuit arises.
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: This portion of the policy may cover damage to the company vehicle, regardless of fault. Whether the vehicle is damaged in a collision or due to events like theft or natural disasters, these coverages ensure repairs or replacement costs are addressed.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the other driver lacks sufficient insurance or has no insurance at all, this coverage can help pay for your injuries and damages.
- Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection (PIP): In some cases, the company’s insurance policy may cover medical expenses for injuries sustained by employees involved in the accident.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: While not part of the auto policy, workers’ compensation is often the primary source of coverage for employees injured in a company vehicle accident. It provides benefits for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
It’s important to note that coverage may be limited if you were using the vehicle for personal purposes at the time of the accident. Additionally, disputes can arise over whether the accident occurred within the scope of your employment.
How a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help
Between medical bills, time away from work, and navigating complex insurance and legal systems, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where we step in.
Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys can:
Evaluate Your Case
We’ll carefully assess the details of your accident to determine your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits and identify any additional claims, such as third-party liability.
Ensure Your Rights Are Protected
Employers and insurance companies may attempt to minimize your benefits or question whether your accident occurred during work-related activities. We’ll fight to protect your rights and ensure you’re treated fairly throughout the process.
Handle Paperwork and Deadlines
Workers’ compensation claims involve strict filing requirements and deadlines. Our team will ensure all necessary documents are submitted correctly and on time to avoid delays or denials.
Maximize Your Compensation
If your case involves multiple sources of compensation—such as a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury lawsuit—we’ll coordinate both processes to help you recover the full amount you’re entitled to.
Provide Peace of Mind
With us handling the legal complexities, you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.
If you’ve been injured in a company vehicle accident, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Contact Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman today for a free consultation. Let us put our decades of experience to work for you, so you can secure the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman Today
If you’ve been injured in a company vehicle accident, the road to recovery can be filled with legal and financial challenges. At Katz, Leidman, Freund & Herman, we have the experience and dedication to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and maximize your compensation. Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the benefits and justice you deserve.