What Happened in the Case of Big Bob and Transfer Trucking (TT)?
Who can Austin recover damages from in the case involving Big Bob and Transfer Trucking (TT)?
A. Big Bob only
B. Transfer Trucking (TT) only
C. Both Big Bob and TT
D. None of the above
Correct Answer: C. Both Big Bob and TT
Under the given circumstances, TT (Transfer Trucking) can be held liable for the negligent torts committed by its agent, Big Bob, under the doctrine of respondent superior. Respondent superior is a legal principle that holds an employer responsible for the actions of its employees when those actions occur within the scope of their employment.
In this case, Big Bob was an employee and agent of TT, and he was performing his regular job duties as a driver by making deliveries along his route. Although Big Bob deviated 100 miles to see the space ship launch, his actions could still be considered within the scope of his employment since it was a single isolated deviation and he was still using the truck provided by TT. Therefore, TT can be held liable for Big Bob's negligent acts while driving to see the launch, including the accident with Austin.
More Details:
When an employee, like Big Bob in this case, is acting within the scope of their employment, the employer can be held liable for any damages caused by the employee's negligence. Even if the employee takes a slight detour for personal reasons, as long as the actions are not completely outside the realm of employment, the employer may still be responsible.
In the case of TT and Big Bob, since Big Bob was on his way to see the space ship launch using the truck provided by TT, his actions can be considered within the scope of his employment. Thus, Austin can recover damages from both Big Bob and TT because TT can be held accountable for the actions of their agent as per the principle of respondent superior.