Can I recover damages if the drunk driver was driving a company vehicle?

If you were hit by a drunk driver who was operating a company vehicle, you may be wondering if you can recover damages. The short answer is, yes, you may be able to recover damages in a personal injury claim. However, there are several factors that may impact your ability to recover damages, such as the circumstances of the accident, the liability of the company, and the insurance coverage available.

Here are some important things to consider if you were hit by a drunk driver who was driving a company vehicle:

  1. Liability: In order to recover damages, you will need to prove that the drunk driver was at fault for the accident. If the driver was drunk, there is a strong chance they were negligent, which means that they breached their duty of care to operate their vehicle safely. However, liability may also extend to the company that employed the driver, depending on the circumstances of the crash.
  1. Employer Liability: In some cases, an employer may be held liable for the actions of an employee who causes a crash while on the job. If the employer knew or should have known that the employee had a history of drunk driving or other reckless behavior, they may be held responsible for negligent hiring or supervision. Additionally, if the employer provided the employee with a company vehicle or required them to drive as part of their job duties, they may be liable under a theory of vicarious liability.
  1. Insurance Coverage: Recovering damages may also depend on the insurance coverage available. If the driver was operating a company vehicle at the time of the accident, the company may have insurance coverage that could help pay for your damages. However, insurance companies are known to fight tooth and nail to avoid paying out large settlements, so it’s important to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side who can negotiate with the insurance company and fight for your rights.

If you were injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver who was driving a company vehicle, it’s important to speak with an attorney who has experience handling personal injury claims. The Ruth Law Team is a firm that specializes in personal injury law and has a team of attorneys who can help you understand your rights and options. Contact them today at (888) 783-8378 to schedule a consultation.

You can also visit us by appointment at one of our Florida Law Offices, Minnesota Law Offices, or Georgia Law Offices.

Please note that the answers to each question may vary depending on the specific facts of your case, and it is always best to consult with an attorney to get more accurate information. Also, this is general information and not legal advice.