If I work for a moving company as an on-call, occasional employee and had a car accident, is my employer legally responsible in any way?
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If I work for a moving company as an on-call, occasional employee and had a car accident, is my employer legally responsible in any way?
While on the job and driving a truck rented by the owner of the moving company, I scraped a parked car causing minor/moderate damage. I immediately contacted my boss, the owner of the moving company to report it to him and inquire as to the proper procedure for handling the situation. After relating to him the facts, he directed me to either leave the scene or leave my own information (not his company’s information). I left my name and telephone number in a note on the damaged vehicle. I have since been contacted by the owner of this vehicle and I am not sure how to proceed.
Asked on November 12, 2013 under Employment Labor Law, Massachusetts
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
Your employer is liable for the accident because an employer is liable for the negligence of an employee which occurs during the course and scope of employment.
Your employer should contact his moving company's insurance carrier and that insurance carrier will handle the matter with the party whose parked car was damaged.
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