Accidents Involving Work Vehicles are a Major Concern
There are numerous small businesses that have invested in company vehicles as a way to transport employees, equipment, and assets from place to place. Just as when someone gets behind the wheel of a car for personal use, there is a risk of auto accidents taking place involving company vehicles as well. For this reason, it is important for small businesses to be aware of the implications that are going to come to light in the event of an auto accident involving a company car.
According to Steinberg Goodman & Kalish, “every time we enter the roadway, we are placing our safety — and our lives — in the hands of other drivers who may be impaired, reckless or distracted.” This means that not every accident is going to be the fault of the company vehicle. It is first important to take a look at the police report. This report should list who is at fault. The company and its driver need to be defended appropriately against any claim that the accident was the fault of the company. If the company is blamed for the accident, this could lead to a host of additional legal concerns.
Furthermore, the company also needs to treat its driver and any medical expenses that might arise. The company should have a comprehensive health insurance policy that will pick up the tab for any medical expenses that arise. Some of the most common injuries that people sustain in a motor vehicle accident include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and whiplash. Sometimes, these injuries could require surgery. People might have to spend the night in the hospital and undergo extensive physical therapy after the accident. These are all issues that need to be considered.
Finally, the business also needs to protect its assets. Sometimes, these accidents take place with valuable company equipment in the vehicle. This might include electronic devices, sensitive data, and proprietary technology. If this happens, the company needs to complete a thorough investigation and see what was damaged, what is still intact, and what can be repaired. This includes the vehicle as well. Ideally, the company has insurance policies on all of this equipment. Then, claims can be filed to replace anything that was lost or damaged.
These are only a few of the many issues that companies need to consider when it comes to auto accidents involving commercial vehicles. Some of the most common causes of auto accidents involving commercial vehicles include a lack of familiarity with the vehicle, driving under the influence, driving while tired, and poor maintenance. It is important for companies to do everything in their power to minimize these risks and keep their drivers safe while behind the wheel of a company vehicle. Valuable equipment is being transported and the safety of everyone involved should always come first.
