A man who did not tell his employer about a previous conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) has been found at fault for driving while intoxicated while on the job. It’s a mistake that caused a victim to experience a severe arm injury and cost his employer $12 million.
In this issue, we’ll talk about what happened.
The Case at a Glance
While working as a property manager for a condominium complex, the man drove the victim to a bar to talk about ideas for a St. Patrick’s Day party. The victim served on the condominium’s homeowner’s association at the time.
While both men drank at the bar, the property manager decided to drive the victim home afterward. On the way, the vehicle they were in crashed into another one, causing a severe injury to the victim’s right arm.
He would later undergo nearly 30 surgeries over the course of four years.
What The Employer Claimed
During the trial, the property manager’s parent company maintained that the two men were both simply enjoying a social event unrelated to business.
The victim and his lawyer, however, were successful in arguing that the property manager was indeed operating in the scope of his job duties.
Further, they were able to prove that the property manager had previously been convicted of DUI just six months after being hired by a previous employer – a fact he withheld from the current boss.
This is key because the victim’s lawyer was able to produce evidence that he should have been registered in California’s Pull Program, which would have automatically notified his current employer about the previous arrest. They then would have been able to either terminate him or restrict his driving privileges.
The Lesson
Beyond providing another example of why it makes no sense to get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol, the case is also an example of why it’s crucial to have a skilled lawyer on your side if you’re injured by someone else.
With both men under the influence, it would have been difficult to fully prove who was at fault.
If You’re Injured by a Drunk Driver, Call Barber & Associates
If you or a family member has been injured by a drunk driver, you may have the right to recover compensation.
For a free consultation, call us here at Barber & Associates. Our number is 907-276-5858 or you can reach us via email.