Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California
Auto accident in company vehicel
I was in an accident while driving to work in a company vehicle. I was found to be at fault. The company insurance has told me that they will cover everything and I don't need to worry about it. Last week the owner of the company was served with papers for a law suit. The law suit names me as a defendant. It also names the company. I have not been served personally. The insurance company again tells me I have nothing to worry about. Can I be found financilally responsible for this? Will the compnany's insurance company really cover all of the costs? Do I need a lawyer?
4 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Auto accident in company vehicel
Provided an employee was acting within the course and scope of his employment (and provided his actions were not willful) the company is usually required to defend the employee AND pay any claims, settlements, judgments, etc.
Re: Auto accident in company vehicel
Yes you can be held responsible for any damages in excess of insurance coverage. Traveling to work in a company car is not acting on the employer's behalf. Therefore the car owners liability is statutorily limited. Whether you have any realistic concerns depends upon the nature and extent of the damages to the injured party.
Re: Auto accident in company vehicel
Don't worry. The company is correct and the insurance policy will cover you. The employer is required to defend you in any work-related law suit. You do not need an attorney from the information you provided.
Re: Auto accident in company vehicel
no worries. if you were in the course and scope of employment at the time, (and you weren't found to be under the influence, etc.), the carrier for your employer will both defend you, and pay off any judgment or settlement. don't even fret if they serve you. just give the summons and complaint to your employer and have them notify their carrier. sleep well.
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