Being involved in a company vehicle accident can be more complex than a regular car crash. Whether you were driving a company car, hit by a business vehicle, or a passenger in a commercial fleet vehicle, your legal rights and insurance coverage may differ.
So, who is responsible for the damages? Can you sue the company? What should you do to protect your rights?
In this guide, we’ll explain:
Steps to take immediately after an accident involving a company vehicle
Who is liable for damages—employer, driver, or third parties?
How workers’ compensation applies to employees injured in company vehicles
Your legal options if you were hit by a commercial vehicle
If you’ve been in an accident involving a company vehicle, don’t wait—protect your rights and get legal advice today.
📢 Get a Free Case Evaluation Here 📢
Step 1: What to Do Immediately After a Company Vehicle Accident
Regardless of who was at fault, taking the right steps after the accident is crucial to protect your legal rights and maximize your compensation.
1. Call 911 and Get Medical Attention
🚑 If anyone is injured, seek medical help immediately. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may appear hours or days later.
✔ Report the accident to law enforcement—a police report will help establish liability.
🚨 IMPORTANT: If you were driving a company vehicle for work purposes, notify your employer as soon as possible.
2. Gather Evidence at the Scene
📸 Take photos and videos of:
Vehicle damage (company car and other vehicles)
License plates and insurance details
Road conditions, traffic signs, and signals
Any visible injuries
Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s):
Full names and contact details
Employer’s name (if the other driver was in a company vehicle)
Insurance provider and policy number
📢 Need Help Gathering Evidence? Contact a Lawyer 📢
Step 2: Determining Liability in a Company Vehicle Accident
Liability in company vehicle accidents depends on who was driving, why the vehicle was in use, and who owns the vehicle.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Scenario | Liable Party |
You were driving a company vehicle for work | Employer (under vicarious liability) |
You were driving a company vehicle for personal reasons | You (your personal insurance may apply) |
You were hit by a commercial vehicle | The company, the driver, or both |
A company vehicle malfunction caused the accident | Employer or vehicle manufacturer |
An independent contractor in a company vehicle caused the crash | The contractor, not the company (unless improperly trained) |
🚨 DID YOU KNOW?
✔ If the driver was “on the clock,” the employer is usually responsible.
✔ If the driver was off-duty or using the vehicle for personal reasons, they may be personally liable.
📢 Find Out Who’s Responsible in Your Case 📢
Step 3: How Workers’ Compensation Applies to Employees in Company Vehicle Accidents
If you were an employee driving a company vehicle for work purposes, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
Covers: Medical bills, lost wages, disability benefits.
Does NOT Cover: Damages to your vehicle (covered by company insurance).
You cannot sue your employer for negligence if you accept workers’ compensation.
🚨 WHEN TO CONSIDER A LAWSUIT:
✔ If a third party (another driver) caused the accident, you may file a personal injury claim.
✔ If your employer was grossly negligent (e.g., unsafe vehicle maintenance), you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
📢 See If You Qualify for Workers’ Comp or a Lawsuit 📢
Step 4: What If You Were Hit by a Company Vehicle?
If you were another driver, passenger, or pedestrian hit by a commercial vehicle, your claim may involve:
The company’s commercial insurance
The driver’s insurance (if they were using the car for personal reasons)
A third party (if another factor contributed to the accident)
🚨 TIP: Many companies carry large commercial insurance policies, but insurers often try to settle for less than you deserve.
📢 Find Out How Much Your Claim Is Worth 📢
Step 5: Can You Sue After a Company Vehicle Accident?
Yes, you may be able to file a lawsuit if:
You were injured due to someone else’s negligence.
The company denies liability.
The insurance settlement offer is too low.
Who Can You Sue?
The employer – If they were negligent in hiring, training, or maintaining vehicles.
The driver – If they were reckless or driving under the influence.
The vehicle manufacturer – If a mechanical defect caused the crash.
🚨 DID YOU KNOW? Some companies pressure employees to deny fault or avoid reporting accidents. Don’t fall for it!
📢 Get Legal Advice Before Accepting a Settlement 📢
Step 6: How to Maximize Your Compensation
💰 You may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehab, medication)
Lost wages (if injuries keep you from working)
Pain and suffering (emotional distress, PTSD)
Vehicle repairs or replacement
Wrongful death benefits (if a loved one was killed in the accident)
🚨 WARNING: Insurance companies often offer low settlements—never accept an offer without legal advice.
📢 Get a Free Case Review to Maximize Your Settlement 📢
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Rights After a Company Vehicle Accident
Accidents involving company vehicles can be complicated, but knowing your rights can help you get the compensation you deserve.
🚗 Key Takeaways:
If you were driving for work, your employer may be responsible.
If you were hit by a company vehicle, the business may be liable.
Workers’ compensation may apply, but you could have additional legal claims.
Never accept an insurance offer without consulting a lawyer.
📢 Get a Free Case Evaluation Now 📢
“Company Vehicle Accident Rights”