Foley & Lardner LLP partner Daniel Kaplan is quoted in the SHRM article, “How to Curb Employees’ Bad Driving,” offering insight on potential liability concerns for employers of delivery drivers.
Employers can face “liability created by an employee who engages in inappropriate driving conduct that causes injury to a third party,” explained Kaplan. If an employee causes an accident that leads to injuries or property damage and the aggrieved party seeks compensation, their employer might be viewed as the one having “deep pockets,” Kaplan said, and the plaintiffs may try for a big settlement.
Kaplan added that he encourages clients to review the driving record of everyone who drives for work and recommends implementing a safe driving policy, which should include spelling out conduct that is prohibited, such as driving under the influence or using a cell phone while driving.
