What Happens If You’re Hit by a Company Vehicle in North Carolina?
Were you hit by a company vehicle? Accidents involving company cars can quickly become complex because they may involve multiple liable parties and insurers. An experienced personal injury attorney in NC from Ward Black Law can help you file an NC work vehicle accident claim and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Can the Company Be Held Responsible for the Driver’s Actions?
A company can typically be held responsible for a crash caused by an employee driving a company vehicle while performing their work duties. That is due to the legal principle of vicarious liability, which holds that employers are automatically liable for negligent actions taken by employees within the scope of their employment.
However, depending on the circumstances of the accident, liability could also extend to other parties. For example, a vehicle manufacturer, maintenance provider, contractor, or another driver could share responsibility if their negligence contributed to the accident.
How Insurance Works in Company Vehicle Accidents
Companies that own or operate vehicles for business use typically carry commercial auto insurance policies that cover accidents involving those vehicles. If an employee was driving and working at the time of the crash, the company’s commercial policy could provide primary coverage for any resulting injuries and property damage.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding the crash, other policies could also apply. For example, the driver’s personal auto insurance, the company’s umbrella liability policy, or another driver’s insurance may all come into play.
What if the Company Denies Responsibility?
When multiple parties are involved, there is a greater likelihood of disputes over responsibility.
The driver’s employer may try to deny responsibility by claiming the driver was not acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the crash. For example, they may argue the driver was running a personal errand or using the vehicle without permission. In other situations, a company might dispute whether the driver was an employee at all, such as by claiming they were actually an independent contractor.
Any time there are disputes over liability, our NC company vehicle accident lawyers can investigate the facts and gather evidence to support your claim.
North Carolina’s Contributory Negligence Rule Could Impact Your Case
Liability disputes can also affect you as an injured person. Insurers might assert that your negligent actions contributed to the accident. Under North Carolina’s contributory negligence law, that puts your financial recovery at risk because, if you are found even slightly liable, you cannot recover any compensation. For that reason, if you are suing a company for a car accident, you need our skilled North Carolina car accident attorneys in your corner to fight back against attempts to blame you for the accident.
Talk to a North Carolina Company Vehicle Accident Lawyer Today
If you suffered injuries when someone operating a company vehicle hit your car, you may be entitled to compensation for the resulting financial and personal losses. Let the award-winning car accident lawyers at Ward Black Law provide the legal representation you need. We have a 30-year track record of favorable results and a long list of satisfied clients.
Reach out to our office right away at (800) 531-9191 or fill out our contact form to arrange a free consultation with a skilled attorney.