Towing Issues: Driver Liability, tow company, california agency

Question
Hello,

I am currently employed by a tow company in San Diego.
I accidentally bumped into a vehicle at a shop which belonged to another customer of the shop. It was minor, but my boss is claiming that his deductible is $1000 and that all or part of the damages may come out of my check. He will decide when he sees the bill.
I believe that this is a natural hazard, among many, that he assumes by owning a tow company and hiring drivers to drive his vehicles. What resources are available to me through CTTA? I am a light duty driver certified through CTTA. What happens in these instances and what are my rights and responsibilities?
Thank you for whatever help or insight you can provide on this matter.

Sincerely,
Jeremy  

Answer
Well I am sorry to say but the risk of owning the business just does not cover accidents.  

Even thought the company has insurance (and $1000.00 deductible is low in lots of cases) which covers accidents, the general policy in most towing companies is that driver neglect or mistakes are usually covered by the driver.  

If the boss was to turn in to his insurance every minor accident and damage claim, then his coverage would be sky high if not cancelled.  By the way, a general average for coverage is about 5000.00 a truck for the light duties on a yearly basis.

Of course some states do have provisions on withholding moneys from employees checks. I would check with the California agency who covers unemployement (labor board or wage and hour or what ever they are called there )and see what your rights are.  

Hope this helps


Richard