Let’s say that your job requires you to drive a company car. Most days, you have no issues driving the vehicle; you drive from location to location with no problems. But one day, you are involved in a car accident. You suffer an injury, and now you wonder whether you can file a workers’ compensation claim. This depends on a variety of circumstances.
Who is liable: Employer, or employee?
If the other driver is not found liable for the accident, then liability will likely fall to you or your employer. Usually, employers are responsible for employees’ actions that occur on the job. But even if you were driving the company car during your work hours, a court may find you liable if you chose to use the car for a nonwork-related purpose. For example, driving the car during a lunch break, or driving the car to meet with friends after work. However, if you were driving the car as part of your job, then a court may shift liability to your employer.
The law is not hard and fast
Every workers’ compensation case is different. Each case is affected by its unique circumstances. In Pennsylvania, there is no formula for determining whether an employee involved in a car accident in a company vehicle will receive compensation. The decision may vary case by case.
To have the best chance possible of obtaining workers’ compensation, some people decide to seek legal help. This can help you navigate the process, understand your rights and obtain compensation for your damages as quickly as possible.
