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Being involved in a car accident is always stressful, but the situation becomes even more complex when the other vehicle is company-owned. In Texas, corporate or commercial vehicle accidents often raise questions about liability, employer responsibility, and insurance coverage.
At Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys, our Austin law firm helps accident victims understand their legal rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a company vehicle crash, here’s what you need to know.
Who Is Liable If a Company Vehicle Hits You?
Liability in a company vehicle accident depends on several factors, including who was at fault and whether the driver acted within the scope of their employment.
The Company May Be Responsible
Under Texas law, employers are generally liable for accidents caused by employees performing job-related duties during the crash. This principle, known as vicarious liability or respondent superior, holds companies accountable for their employees’ negligent actions while on the job.
For example, a company may be responsible if:
- The employee was making deliveries or driving for work-related purposes.
- The employee was traveling to or from a business-related meeting.
- The accident occurred while the employee was performing a task assigned by their employer.
The Driver May Be Personally Liable
There are situations where the employee, not the company, may be liable for the accident.
This includes:
- If the employee was off duty or using the company vehicle for personal reasons.
- If the employee violated company policies, such as driving under the influence.
- If the employee was engaged in reckless or illegal behavior, such as street racing.
Third-Party Liability May Apply
In some cases, a third party could also share responsibility.
This includes:
- A vehicle manufacturer if a defective part caused the accident.
- A maintenance provider, if negligent servicing, contributed to the crash.
- Another driver whose actions led to the collision.
Because multiple parties may be responsible, having an experienced accident attorney is crucial to determining who should be held accountable.
How Insurance Works in Texas Company Vehicle Accidents
Texas requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, but commercial insurance policies typically apply when a company vehicle is involved. These policies often have higher coverage limits, meaning victims may have a better chance of recovering full compensation.
Potential insurance coverage may include:
- The company’s commercial auto insurance policy.
- The employee’s auto insurance policy (in some cases).
- Your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if the at-fault driver was underinsured.
One challenge in company vehicle accidents is that insurance companies work aggressively to minimize payouts.
The company’s insurer may try to:
- Deny liability by shifting blame to the employee or another party.
- Offer a low settlement that does not fully cover medical bills or lost wages.
- Delay your claim in hopes that you will settle for less than you deserve.
Because commercial insurance companies often have legal teams working against you, hiring a lawyer increases your chances of securing maximum compensation. We can help.
Do not speak to the company’s insurance adjuster without legal representation. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact our experienced attorney who handles company vehicle accidents in Texas to protect your rights. Call (512) 883-0277 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation. We pursue dedicated, driven results for our clients, and there is never a charge to talk to an attorney. We stand ready to help you.
