Can an employer dictate the type of vehicle that I use for work?
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Can an employer dictate the type of vehicle that I use for work?
I am a field inspector for a property management company. I use my own car to drive to different properties to do inspection during and after the tenancy. I recently purchased a motorcycle and was told that I can’t drive it for work purposes. It is my vehicle, I pay for it and I insure it. I also have plenty insurance for myself and take responsibility if I am injured. My employer pays me for mileage at the federal rate. Can they dictate what vehicle I use for work? Can they make me use my car instead of my bike? I am a full-time employee of the company, not a contractor.
Asked on September 25, 2018 under Employment Labor Law, North Carolina
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
Unless you have an employment contract or union agreement that states otherwise, you are an "at will" worker which means that your company can set the conditions of your employment much as it sees fit (absent some form of legally actionable discrimination). In other words, it can mandate that you use a certain vehicle in which to perform your work duties. If you do not comply you can be disciplined, up to and including suspension or termination. In fact, you can be so disciplined for any reason or no reason at all.
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
Unless you have an employment contract or union agreement that states otherwise, you are an "at will" worker which means that your company can set the conditions of your employment much as it sees fit (absent some form of legally actionable discrimination). In other words, it can mandate that you use a certain vehicle in which to perform your work duties. If you do not comply you can be disciplined, up to and including suspension or termination. In fact, you can be so disciplined for any reason or no reason at all.
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