When Is An Employer Liable?

Employees are typically expected to honor the requests of their employers. In some situations, however, these requests can lead to someone suffering a serious injury, either for the employee or someone else. When someone is injured because of actions requested by an employer, the employer can sometimes be held liable as well.

For example, if an employer at a construction site orders his employees to take down protective scaffolding that prevents injuries to passersby, the employer may be liable for any injuries that occur. Any company whose work puts the public at risk has a responsibility to minimize the risk of injury to others in every way possible, no matter what the industry.

The rules of war provide an example of this. If a soldier commits a crime outside of his orders, he will be held liable. But if his actions are the results of an officer’s orders, the officer will also be accountable. Acting under orders is no excuse for committing crimes that a sensible person should realize are wrong, but those giving the orders are also responsible.

This is not to say that employers should always be held accountable for their employees’ actions. In some cases, employees acting outside their employer’s knowledge might be the only ones who the court finds at fault for a serious injury. However, if the injuries are a result of an employer’s orders, the employer will likely be held accountable for knowingly issuing dangerous requests to subordinates.

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If you have been injured because of someone else’s irresponsible actions, and you believe his or her employer may be accountable as well, you need the help of an attorney. The experienced Clearwater injury lawyers of Tragos, Sartes & Tragos, P.L.L.C. will work with you to get the justice you deserve. To get started, contact us today at (727) 441-9030.