Driving for business is a regular activity for many employees, from making deliveries to attending meetings or commuting to job locations. However, the convenience of driving for work comes with significant legal dangers and obligations that employers and employees must be aware of.
In this article, we will explore the legal implications of driving for business and provide some tips to help businesses and employees mitigate those risks.
The Legal Risks of Driving for Business
Car accidents represent one of the most serious legal dangers linked with driving for business. When an employee causes a car accident while driving for work, both the employee and the company may be held responsible for any resulting damages or injuries. Consult a car accident lawyer to learn about your rights and potential liabilities if you or your company have been in a car accident.
Aside from the risk of car accidents, businesses, and their employees may be held liable for various legal difficulties associated with driving for work. For example, if an employee breaks traffic regulations or drives while under the influence of drugs or alcohol on the job, both the employee and the employer may face legal ramifications.
Furthermore, if an employee uses a company car for personal reasons or fails to properly maintain the vehicle, the firm may be held accountable for any accidents or injuries that occur as a result.
Mitigating Legal Risks for Businesses and Employees
Companies and their workers should take precautions to reduce the legal risks involved with driving for business purposes. Tips to think about are as follows:
- Develop a clear driving policy: Companies should institute a transparent policy on company driving that lays out expectations for employee conduct when driving for work, such as abiding by traffic regulations, avoiding distractions while driving, and reporting any accidents or problems immediately.
- Screen employees for safe driving records: Employers should investigate applicants’ driving records as part of a comprehensive background check before hiring anyone who will be needed to drive for work. Hiring individuals who have a proven track record of safe driving can help your business avoid legal trouble and financial loss.
- Provide regular training: Employees who receive consistent driver instruction are more likely to use safe driving habits and have fewer accidents. Businesses owe it to their employees to instruct them on how to drive safely in a variety of situations, including adverse weather and when multitasking.
- Maintain vehicles properly: Maintaining a fleet of company vehicles in excellent working order is an important responsibility for any business. Oil changes and tire rotations are just two examples of preventative maintenance that can help keep your car on the road and out of trouble.
- Consider commercial auto insurance: You should think about getting commercial auto insurance in case an employee or company vehicle is involved in an accident or any other legal trouble arises from driving for work.
Conclusion
Driving for work is a frequent perk of various employment, but it comes with significant legal responsibilities. Accidents, injuries, and legal conflicts can be decreased if businesses and their employees are aware of the risks they face and take steps to mitigate them.