What are my rights/responsibilities if my employer is making use my personal vehicle for business?

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What are my rights/responsibilities if my employer is making use my personal vehicle for business?

I work for a company as a team leader. We do canvassing for a remodeling company. We go to different citys and knock on doors trying to sign people up for free estimates and stuff. Well I have been working for them for a while and they used to give me a van to drive my crew of 5 guys around. A few months ago the van broke down so now they make me use my personal car; I put around 60-80 miles a day on it. The problem I have is that I know if I get into a accident my insurance won’t cover the other guys in the car because I am using my car for my job. I want something in writing from my employer addressing this. Is my boss doing something illegal by makeing me use my own insurance?

Asked on August 14, 2013 under Employment Labor Law, California

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 10 years ago | Contributor

No, unfortunately your employer is not doing anything illegal by making you use your personal vehicle for  work, and is not required to insure it; reimburse you for any damage; or even pay you for gas, mileage, or wear and tear. An employer can set terms and conditions, or requirements, for employment; one such requirement can be that employees provide and use their own vehicles for work. An employee who does not wish to do that needs to seek other employment.

In terms of insurance coverage: you may need to disclose to your insurer that you are now using your car for work and pay an additional premium. That is probably worthwhile, to avoid having to pay the cost of any damage or accident yourself.  If you do not disclose the busisiness use of your car, you will not be covered.


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