When employees get behind the wheel for work—whether in a company-owned vehicle or their personal car—their employer may be legally responsible if a crash occurs. This responsibility is rooted in the doctrine of respondeat superior, which holds employers accountable for actions employees take while performing job-related tasks. Driving to client meetings, making deliveries, or running work errands all fall under this umbrella. However, if an employee is traveling for personal reasons, commuting, or driving while impaired, the employer typically isn’t liable. In those instances, the employee’s personal insurance usually applies.

Motor vehicle accidents remain one of the most common sources of workplace injuries and fatalities across the country. Every year, thousands of workers are hurt in crashes, leading to significant downtime and financial strain for organizations. Many causes are similar to everyday driving risks—things like distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, or improper vehicle maintenance. Yet work-related driving adds its own complications, such as tight deadlines, unfamiliar territories, and the pressure to multitask on the job. These added challenges highlight why employers must prioritize vehicle upkeep, promote safe driving practices, and set reasonable expectations to minimize risky behavior.

When an employee is injured in a crash while performing job duties, they’re generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. This no-fault coverage supports injured workers by paying for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and a portion of lost wages—even if the employee contributed to the accident. What workers’ compensation won’t cover is pain and suffering. In situations involving a negligent third party, such as another driver or a defective vehicle, employees may still pursue separate legal claims to recover additional damages. If a worker uses their personal car for business tasks, they’re still eligible for workers’ compensation, but any damage to their vehicle would typically fall under their own insurance policy.

Liability becomes more complex when a crash involves a company-owned vehicle. Employers frequently carry insurance to cover these incidents, helping pay for injuries or property damage caused to others. That said, coverage and liability depend heavily on the circumstances. If an employee is off the clock, under the influence, or violating workplace policies at the time of the accident, they may be personally responsible for the financial fallout. In certain cases, both the employer and employee may share responsibility. This often happens when the company didn’t properly train or supervise the driver, failed to maintain the vehicle, or overlooked warning signs about unsafe driving behavior.

Evaluating fault in work-related car accidents requires a close look at the employee’s purpose at the time of the crash, the employer’s internal procedures, and any relevant insurance policies. Understanding the distinction between work-related and personal driving is critical, as it determines which insurance applies, how injuries are handled, and who ultimately pays for the resulting damages. By recognizing these responsibilities, both employers and employees can better prepare for unexpected incidents on the road and ensure they have the right protections in place.