The vast majority of car crashes occur due to human error. People make poor choices in traffic with disastrous results. Unfortunately, individuals who cause car crashes do not necessarily have enough insurance to properly compensate the people affected by the crash they cause.
Even if the other party files a lawsuit, the driver at fault for the collision may lack the income or personal resources necessary to fully cover collision expenses. Those involved in serious collisions may sometimes need to explore third-party liability. Businesses can sometimes be partially at fault or at least partially liable for a car crash.
What are some of the more common scenarios that lead to business liability for a crash?
Illegal alcohol service practices
Businesses with licenses to dispense alcohol generally are not liable for the conduct of patrons after they leave the premises of the business. However, there are exceptions enshrined in state statutes for clear violations of alcohol service rules. If employees at a bar or restaurant serve alcohol to a minor, the business may have a degree of liability if that underage motorist leaves and causes a crash. The same is true in a scenario where reasonable people can recognize that a patron is inebriated. Continuing to serve alcohol to a drunk individual could open the business up to liability if that patron then causes a drunk driving crash.
Vehicle defects and maintenance mistakes
In some cases, vehicles may experience unexpected issues on the road because of a defect. A broad range of different design flaws or defective components could cause a collision. For example, if the hood latch on a vehicle fails, the hood could fly up and cover the windshield, impairing a driver’s vision and potentially causing a crash. Manufacturers may have a degree of liability in those scenarios. Professionals and businesses that offer vehicle maintenance and repair services can also face liability in scenarios where mistakes leave a vehicle in unsafe condition.
Crashes caused by workers on the clock
Employers have to accept liability for the conduct and negligence of their employees. If a company requires that workers drive to fulfill functions while on the clock, the business may be liable if its employees cause crashes while working. Rules about employer liability open companies up to compensation claims and lawsuits when their staff members are to blame for major collisions.
Looking into different sources of compensation can be beneficial for those negatively affected by car wrecks. When businesses may be liable for a crash, injured parties may have a better chance of fully recouping their losses.