Employers Liability Bites

2 October 2007

A kitchen-fitting employer was recently held liable for the injuries caused when his van driver fell asleep at the wheel. "This was non-tacho driving, but the case reminds us that an employer must ensure his drivers are in a fit state to drive," says specialist motor industry lawyer Adrian Watts. "The driver in question was working and driving from 03:30 till 23:00, covering Bradford, Swindon, Sidmouth and back. He only stopped because he crashed the van. His employer's apparent 'you can sleep when you're dead' attitude may not have helped." Miles and hours covered by an employee in a van or car need to be monitored and kept reasonable if the firm is to keep within the law.

More from Adrian Watts on +44 (0)7 768 624 104 or adrian@wattslegal.co.uk