Common Causes of Company Vehicle Accidents in Santa Rosa

Company vehicle accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to negligence on the part of the driver, employer, or another motorist. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving – Employees using phones, GPS devices, or other distractions while operating a company vehicle.
• Fatigued Driving – Employers push drivers to work long hours without adequate rest.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Companies failing to properly inspect and maintain fleet vehicles.
• Aggressive Driving – Speeding, reckless lane changes, or road rage.
• Inexperienced Drivers – Employees who are not properly trained to operate large or specialized vehicles.
• Drunk or Impaired Driving – Employees under the influence of alcohol or drugs while driving a company vehicle.

If negligence played a role in your accident, you may be entitled to compensation beyond what workers’ compensation provides.

Who Is Liable in a Company Vehicle Accident?

Determining liability in a company vehicle accident can be complicated. Potentially responsible parties include:

1. The At-Fault Driver: If the employee was speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent, they may be held personally liable.
2. The Employer: Under California’s respondeat superior doctrine, employers can be held liable for their employee's actions if the accident occurred within the scope of employment. Employers may also be negligent if they:
3. Failed to properly train drivers
4. Hired an unqualified or high-risk driver
5. Did not enforce safe driving policies
6. Allowed an unfit or fatigued driver to operate a vehicle
7. A Third-Party Driver: If another motorist caused the accident, they (and their insurance company) may be responsible for damages.
8. The Vehicle Manufacturer: If a defective part (such as faulty brakes or tires) contributed to the crash, the manufacturer could be liable.

An experienced attorney at Flahavan Law can investigate your accident and identify all liable parties to maximize your compensation.

What to Do After a Company Vehicle Accident in Santa Rosa

If you’ve been injured in a company vehicle accident, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms (like whiplash or internal bleeding) may appear later.
2. Report the Accident – Notify your employer and file an official report.
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries. Collect witness contact information.
4. Avoid Giving Statements – Do not admit fault or provide recorded statements to insurance companies without legal advice.
5. Consult an Accident Lawyer at Flahavan Law– An accident attorney can help you navigate workers’ comp claims and pursue additional compensation if negligence is involved.

Compensation Available for Company Vehicle Accident Victims

Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be eligible for:

• Medical Expenses – Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
• Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering – Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Punitive Damages – In cases of gross negligence (e.g., drunk driving or intentional misconduct).

If you were a passenger in a company vehicle, a pedestrian, or a motorist hit by a company driver, you may also have a strong claim for damages.

Why Choose Flahavan Law for Your Santa Rosa Company Vehicle Accident Case?

At Flahavan Law, we understand how devastating a company vehicle accident can be. Our Santa Rosa attorneys are committed to the following:

• Thorough Investigations – We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts.
• Aggressive Negotiations – We handle insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Trial-Ready Advocacy – If a fair settlement isn’t possible, we’re prepared to take your case to court.
• Compassionate Client Service – We treat every client with respect and keep you informed throughout the legal process.

Contact Flahavan Law Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a company vehicle accident in Santa Rosa, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.