If the accident wasn’t your fault, Texas law allows two potential compensation sources.
One is the other driver’s insurance, and the other is workers’ compensation benefits.
In cases involving serious injury or wrongful death, both may apply.
Hiring a Texas personal injury attorney can help maximize your recovery.
Call Adam Miller, The Texas Bulldog, for a free case evaluation.
You’ll pay nothing unless he wins your case.
Car Wreck While Driving Company Vehicle
If the accident occurred in a company vehicle, you may qualify for workers’ compensation.
In Texas, vicarious liability means the employer is responsible for damage caused by employees.
This only applies if the employee was working or driving within the scope of employment.
If the worker used the company vehicle for personal errands or off-hours, the employer may not be liable.
For example, weekend use or off-duty errands can shift liability away from the employer.
In such cases, only the vehicle may be insured under the employer’s policy.
Vicarious liability often plays a role in truck accident cases.
After crashes involving 18-wheelers, victims usually sue the company, not the driver.
That’s because trucking companies often carry large insurance policies.
These policies are needed due to the severe harm these trucks can cause.
Wreck While Driving Personal Vehicle for Work
Driving your own vehicle during work hours may also qualify for workers’ comp.
Texas doesn’t require all companies to offer workers’ compensation.
However, many large employers still carry this coverage.
Benefits apply only if the employee was driving under the employer’s direction or control.
If that’s the case, it doesn’t matter who caused the crash — coverage still applies.
If the employer doesn’t have workers’ comp and you caused the accident, they can’t be sued.
Your personal auto insurance will be used to cover damages.
Texas requires drivers to carry at least $30,000 in minimum liability insurance.
Will Workers’ Compensation Cover My Damages?
Workers’ compensation applies if the accident occurred during your job duties.
Unfortunately, the payout is often limited.
It typically only covers necessary medical care and part of lost income.
It does not pay for pain, suffering, or full wage replacement.
That’s why hiring a lawyer can make a big difference.
An experienced attorney helps pursue full compensation.
That includes pain and suffering, medical expenses, mental anguish, and more.
Many accident victims can’t afford out-of-pocket expenses — especially with long-term injuries.
If you were in a car accident while working, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits and, in some cases, a separate third-party negligence claim against the at-fault driver. The Miller Law Firm offers a free case review.
