What Does Vicarious Liability Mean In An Illinois Car Accident?

If you have ever had the unfortunate experience of being involved in an auto accident, you have likely heard many terms and phrases that made little sense to you. Legal jargon, as it is often called, can have large repercussions for you, however, and needs to be paid attention to. The phrase “vicarious liability” is one such term that many may overlook despite its importance to a case.

Your Rockford car accident lawyers of Fisk & Monteleone Ltd. can explain how vicarious liability relates to your case.

What is Vicarious Liability?

Vicarious liability is defined by Legal Dictionary as “A legal concept that assigns liability to an individual who did not actually cause the harm, but who has a specific superior legal relationship to the person who did cause the harm.” This legal concept can come into play in numerous instances. The most common use of this term refers to when an employee acts in such a way that the employer will then be held responsible.

As it pertains to Illinois auto law (815 ILCS 312/30), the phrase refers to instances where the blame may be placed on someone other than the driver or direct cause of harm. An underage driver who causes an accident, for example, could result in the victim seeking damages not from the underage driver but from his or her parents. A corporate driver who causes an accident while making deliveries could result in a similar fashion, with the victim seeking damages not from the employee who was driving but from the corporation.

Understand Who Is At Fault

If you have been involved in an auto accident in Illinois, it is imperative to understand who may be at fault and what your rights are under the law. Knowing and understanding whether vicarious liability may be applied to your case is difficult and is best left up to the judgment of an experienced attorney. An attorney experienced in vicarious liability cases may be able to obtain for you the best possible outcome.

Your financial settlement may cover not only any repair costs to your automobile but should also cover any other expenses including lost wages, pain and suffering, medical bills, and more. At the end of the day, your losses are not limited to automobile damage and thus your award should not be either.

Speak to a Rockford Car Accident Lawyer Today

The experienced Rockford car accident attorneys of Fisk & Monteleone Ltd. have the experience you need to get a fair settlement. Their experience in both vehicle accidents, as well as vicarious liability, can help ensure you get a settlement that is fair and just. You can give Fisk & Monteleone Ltd. a call at 815-962-0044. Our friendly staff is here to help you in any way we can and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Do not wait or assume you do not have a case. Call us today to see if you may be due a settlement or if damages could be awarded. You’ll be glad you did!