What Should I Do if I Wreck a Company Car?

If there’s anything worse than wrecking your personal car, it could be wrecking your company’s car. While you won’t necessarily bear the brunt of the repercussions, you could still find yourself in hot water if you cause an accident while driving a business vehicle.

Stop, Stay and Call the Police 

Never leave the scene of an accident, even if it’s a small fender bender. As soon as an accident occurs, stop to check on everyone involved, including any passengers or other drivers. If possible, move your vehicle out of the main road. 

Call the police even if it is a small accident. This can make sure everyone involved gets the care they need and allows you to collect documentation of the accident for your employer. Document everything you can at the scene, including pictures of the damages if you’re able. 

Seek Medical Attention Immediately 

It is critical that everyone in the accident receives medical attention. Even if you feel fine, injuries from car accidents, such as aches and whiplash, can pop up later. This will also help with documentation in case you seek compensation later for your medical bills. 

Call Your Employer 

Once everyone has received the treatment they need and the police have been informed, it is time to call your employer and notify them of the accident. Thankfully, you may not have to deal with the insurer directly. Since your employer is the policyholder, they will then have to file a claim with the insurance provider. 

Keep Up with the Accident 

Even after a claim is filed, make sure you are in the know about what is happening. If you receive injuries during the car accident, you will want to continuously keep up with your doctor’s appointments and medication so that you may receive compensation when it comes available. 

Can You Be Fired for Causing a Wreck in a Company Car? 

Believe it or not, you likely won’t be fired automatically after an accident. Employers understand that accidents happen. So long as you were driving carefully at the time of the accident, you should receive some grace. There are exceptions, of course. Employers will generally fire employees who wreck a company car while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you receive a DUI in a company car, you could receive severe consequences, including termination.