Vicarious liability claims may help support auto accident victims

Most Coloradans who have been injured in an auto accident feel like they have been cheated. In the blink of an eye, they have to find a way to cope with an enormous amount of pain and suffering, while at the same time, securing the funds needed to pay for medical care and rehabilitation. This can be enormously difficult when an individual is unable to work in the weeks, months or years following their auto accident, which can lead to a whole new level of stress.

The good news is that auto accident victims may be able to recover compensation for their losses. However, actually securing that money from a negligent driver, even if a judge has ordered it, may be challenging if that negligent driver lacks the resources to pay. Under these circumstances, an auto accident victim should consider whether a vicarious liability claim is justified.

A vicarious liability lawsuit seeks to hold an employer responsible for the actions of its employee. Therefore, if a trucker, bus driver or other commercial vehicle driver was performing his or her job duties when the auto accident in question occurred, and he or she was actually on the clock, then a judgment may be obtained against that negligent driver’s employer.

Why does this matter? Quite simply, an employer is often much more likely to be able to pay a judgment. In other words, auto accident victims who pursue a vicarious liability claim may be able to reach deeper pockets, thereby securing their ability to recover damages stemming from medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.

Although, there are many benefits to pursuing a vicarious liability claim, they can be quite difficult. This is especially true when going head-to-head against a well-known company that has the resources to mount a strong civil defense. When going against these businesses, auto accident victims may want to ensure they have a strong legal advocate on their side to help them fight for what they deserve.