When employees drive for work—whether in a personal vehicle or a company-owned car—employers may share legal and financial responsibility if a crash occurs. This responsibility stems from the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, which allows an employer to be held liable for an employee’s actions while performing job-related tasks. These tasks can include delivering packages, attending client appointments, or completing business errands. Understanding how this principle works is crucial for anyone navigating a work-related car accident or seeking guidance from a personal injury lawyer in Maine.

However, employer liability does not apply in every scenario. If an employee is commuting, running personal errands, driving while impaired, or acting outside the scope of employment, liability often shifts to the employee and their personal auto insurance. Knowing when this shift occurs helps both employers and workers avoid confusion and potential disputes.

The Risk of Work-Related Driving

Motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities nationwide. Each year, thousands of employees are hurt in work‑related crashes, often resulting in long recovery periods and expensive claims. Many of these incidents stem from common roadway dangers—speeding, distractions, or fatigue—but work‑related driving brings added complexities.

Employees on the road for professional purposes may face:

• Unfamiliar routes and territories
• Rushed or demanding schedules
• Pressure to multitask or use devices while driving
• Additional expectations tied to productivity or deadlines

These factors make unsafe driving more likely. Employers can reduce risks by providing safety training, maintaining company vehicles, and setting realistic workflow expectations. Speaking with a Biddeford ME personal injury attorney can also help businesses ensure they are meeting their legal obligations.

How Workers’ Compensation Fits In

If an employee is injured in a crash during work‑related activities, they are typically eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ comp is a no‑fault system, meaning it covers medical bills, rehabilitation, and partial wage replacement—even if the employee contributed to the accident. This protection is essential for anyone hurt in a work-related motor vehicle accident.

However, workers’ compensation does not provide compensation for pain and suffering. To pursue those damages, the injured worker may need to file a third‑party claim against another driver or a vehicle manufacturer. A Maine workers’ compensation lawyer or car accident attorney can help determine whether a separate claim is appropriate.

Company Vehicles and Liability

Accidents involving company-owned vehicles introduce additional layers of analysis. Most businesses carry commercial auto insurance, which typically covers third‑party injuries or property damage resulting from a work‑related crash. However, the employee’s conduct and compliance with workplace policies still matter.

Key factors influencing employer liability include:

• Purpose of the trip: Was the employee performing job tasks?
• Policy compliance: Was the employee following company rules? Driving while intoxicated or misusing a company vehicle can shift liability.
• Employer negligence: Failing to train drivers or maintain vehicles may expose the employer to additional legal consequences.

In some cases, both the employer and employee may share liability. A Biddeford employer liability lawyer can help clarify responsibilities when claims overlap or when negligence exists on both sides.

Evaluating Fault and Responsibility

Determining responsibility after a work‑related accident requires a detailed review of several elements:

• The employee’s reason for driving at the time of the accident
• The employer’s driving policies and training procedures
• The type of insurance coverage involved—commercial, personal, or both

These factors impact who pays for property damage, medical care, lost wages, and other losses. They also determine whether workers’ compensation applies and whether third‑party claims are available.

Understanding these rules helps employees know their rights and ensures employers are prepared to manage liability effectively. With clear workplace policies, proper training, and safety‑focused procedures, both employers and workers can reduce risk and better protect themselves on the road.

Litalien Law, PLLC assists individuals and businesses throughout Maine with issues involving workplace injuries, motor vehicle collisions, employer liability, and workers’ compensation claims. If you have questions about a work‑related accident or need guidance after a crash, our team is here to help.