A company vehicle is any car, truck, or other motor vehicle owned or leased by a business and used by employees for work-related purposes. If you are involved in an accident while driving a company vehicle, or by a driver who was operating one, you may face unique challenges in seeking compensation for your injuries and damages. Multiple parties, including your employer and their insurance company, may be involved. Make sure to speak with a car accident attorney in Kansas City for legal guidance and support.
Who Pays for an Accident Involving a Company Car in Kansas City?
When an employee causes an accident while driving a company vehicle, the employer may be held liable under the principle of vicarious liability. This means that if the employee was performing job-specific duties at the time of the accident, the employer is responsible for covering the losses associated with the accident.
To establish vicarious liability, three key elements must be proven:
- The employee was conducting company-approved business.
- The employee was performing the job they were hired to do.
- The employer benefited from the employee’s actions at the time of the accident.
If someone else caused the accident involving the company vehicle, the employee may be able to seek compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company. However, the employer’s insurance may also come into play. In some cases, the employer’s insurance may provide additional coverage beyond what the at-fault party’s insurance offers, ensuring that the employee receives adequate compensation for their injuries and damages.
Damages Available in a Company Vehicle Accident Claim
If you have been injured in a company vehicle accident in Kansas City, you may be entitled to various types of damages, depending on the specifics of your case. Some potential damages include:
- Medical Expenses: You may be able to recover the cost of medical treatment related to your injuries, including hospital bills, surgery, medication, and ongoing care.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for the income you have lost and any future earnings you may lose due to a reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: You may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
- Property Damage: If your personal property was damaged in the accident, you can seek reimbursement for the cost of repairs or replacement.
Navigating a company car accident claim in Kansas City can be challenging. Working with an attorney who specializes in these types of cases can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
An attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of filing a claim with the appropriate insurance companies or pursuing a lawsuit if necessary. Moreover, your lawyer will be well-versed in the unique challenges these cases present, such as navigating the interplay between workers’ compensation and third-party liability claims. They can anticipate potential obstacles and develop effective strategies to overcome them.
Contact a Kansas City Car Accident Attorney for Assistance
Accidents involving company vehicles in Kansas City can be complicated, as they often involve multiple parties, including the driver, their employer, and insurance companies. At Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe, we have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding company vehicle accidents. We will work diligently to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us at (816) 876-2600 for a free consultation and let us put our experience to work for you.