Hit by a Company Vehicle in Oklahoma City? Here Are Your Legal Options
If you were hit by a company vehicle in Oklahoma City and need a company vehicle accident attorney Oklahoma City injury victims trust, Warhawk Legal’s Joe Carson understands the unique legal principles that apply when an employer’s vehicle causes an injury — and how those principles can significantly increase the compensation available to you.
Respondeat Superior — Employer Liability for Employee Driving
When an employee causes a car accident while driving a company vehicle in the course of their employment, the employer is generally liable under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior — Latin for “let the master answer.” This means you can pursue a claim not only against the driver but against the employer, who typically has much larger insurance coverage than an individual driver.
Negligent Entrustment — When the Employer Gave Keys to an Unsafe Driver
In addition to respondeat superior, you may have a negligent entrustment claim if the employer provided a vehicle to an employee who they knew or should have known was an unsafe driver. Evidence of a poor driving record, prior accidents, license suspensions, or drug and alcohol problems the employer failed to investigate can support this claim.
Higher Insurance Limits Mean Greater Potential Recovery
Commercial auto insurance policies typically carry significantly higher liability limits than personal auto policies. When a company vehicle is involved, the insurance available to compensate your injuries may be five to ten times greater than in a typical car accident between private individuals. Identifying every applicable policy — including the employer’s commercial umbrella — is critical to maximizing your recovery.
What to Do Immediately After Being Hit by a Company Vehicle
Call 911 and request police and emergency services. Get the driver’s name, license, and insurance information. Photograph the company vehicle including all markings — company name, logo, phone number, and vehicle identification numbers. Get witness contact information. Seek medical attention the same day. Contact Warhawk Legal before giving any statement to the company’s insurance carrier. Learn more about Oklahoma employer liability at OSCN.net.
See our car accident practice. Contact Warhawk Legal — Call (405) 397-1717. Free consultation. No fee unless we win.