If I was driving a company van and hit a pole in front of the office, am I liable for repairs?
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If I was driving a company van and hit a pole in front of the office, am I liable for repairs?
The employee handbook states if damage is done and it is the employee’s fault the employee must pay for damages. Is this legal?
Asked on July 14, 2014 under Accident Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
Yes it is legal:
1) If you are at fault in damaging another person's vehicle--even a company car/van/truck that you are driving as part of your job--you are liable for the damage you do (e.g. the cost of repairs).
2) If it's in the employee handbook, you would in addition to the above generally be held to have agreed to accept liability by the act of continuing to work there after having been made aware of the company policy.
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