Negligent Hiring Laws

Negligent hiring arises when an employer fails to conduct a proper and thorough background check or takes inadequate measures in the selection process of an employee. The employer can be held liable for any harm or damages caused by the employee if it can be proven that the employer was negligent in their hiring practices.

Who Is Liable for Being Negligent in the Selection of Employees?

An employer’s liability for negligent hiring arises when their failure to exercise due diligence during the hiring process results in an employee causing harm or damage to others. This negligence can manifest in several ways, with a range of consequences. Here are some examples to illustrate how negligent hiring can occur and its potential impact:

Example 1: Negligent Hiring in Healthcare

A hospital hires a nurse without verifying their credentials and performing a thorough background check. The nurse has a history of malpractice and incompetence, which the hospital would have discovered if it had conducted a proper investigation.

The nurse’s negligence leads to a patient suffering severe injuries due to incorrect medication administration. In this case, the hospital could be held liable for the patient’s injuries because it negligently hired an unqualified nurse.

Example 2: Negligent Hiring in Childcare

A daycare center hires a childcare worker without conducting a criminal background check. The worker has a previous conviction for child abuse, which the daycare center would have discovered if it had performed a proper background check. The worker goes on to abuse a child in the daycare center. The daycare center could be held liable for the child’s injuries because it negligently hired an individual with a known history of abuse.

Example 3: Negligent Hiring in Transportation

A trucking company hires a driver without verifying their driving record and fails to provide adequate training. The driver has a history of traffic violations and accidents, which the company would have discovered if it had investigated the driver’s background. Due to the driver’s negligence and lack of training, they cause a multi-vehicle accident resulting in injuries and property damage. The trucking company could be held liable for the damages because it negligently hired an unsafe driver.

Example 4: Negligent Hiring in Retail

A retail store hires a sales associate without conducting a background check and does not provide adequate training in handling hazardous materials. The sales associate has a history of theft and substance abuse. While working at the store, the associate steals merchandise and improperly handles a hazardous substance, causing a fire resulting in property damage and customer injuries.

The retail store could be held liable for the damages because it negligently hired an employee with a history of theft and substance abuse who posed a risk to the safety of others.

Employee Drug Testing

Employee drug testing is the process of testing employees or job applicants for the presence of drugs, such as alcohol, narcotics, or other substances. It may be conducted as a part of the pre-employment screening process, for safety-sensitive positions, or as a condition of ongoing employment.

Laws Requiring Drug Testing

The laws regarding employee drug testing vary by jurisdiction. Some states have laws that regulate or limit drug testing, while others do not.

Federally regulated industries, such as transportation and aviation, typically have strict laws requiring drug testing.

Can I Sue for Negligent Hiring?

If you have been harmed or suffered damages due to an employer’s negligent hiring practices, you may have the right to sue the employer for compensation. In order to successfully sue, you will need to prove that the employer was negligent in their hiring process and that their negligence directly caused the harm or damages you experienced.

How Can an Employer Avoid a Negligent Hiring Lawsuit?

To avoid a negligent hiring lawsuit, an employer can take several precautions, including:

1. Conducting thorough background checks on potential employees.
2. Verifying credentials, qualifications, and references.
3. Implementing drug testing policies in accordance with local laws.
4. Providing proper training and supervision for employees.
5. Implementing clear policies and procedures for hiring and employee conduct.

Further measures include:

1. Creating a detailed job description: Clearly outline the required skills, qualifications, and job responsibilities for each position. A comprehensive job description helps ensure that job applicants understand the expectations and requirements, enabling employers to screen candidates more effectively.
2. Conducting multiple interviews: Conduct multiple rounds of interviews, including phone and in-person interviews, to gain a better understanding of the candidate’s experience, skills, and demeanor. This process can also involve including other team members and supervisors in the interview process to obtain various perspectives on the candidate’s suitability for the role.
3. Utilizing pre-employment assessments: Implement pre-employment assessments or tests to evaluate the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and aptitude for the position. These assessments can provide valuable insights into the candidate’s ability to perform the job and help identify any potential red flags.
4. Evaluating social media presence: Reviewing a candidate’s social media profiles can offer insights into their character, professionalism, and potential suitability for the role. However, employers must be cautious to avoid discrimination based on personal beliefs, race, gender, or other protected categories.
5. Implementing probationary periods: Establish a probationary period for new hires during which their performance and conduct are closely monitored. This allows employers to assess the employee’s fit within the organization and take appropriate action if any issues arise.
6. Conducting ongoing evaluations and monitoring: Regularly evaluate employee performance and provide feedback to address any concerns. Continuously monitor employees’ compliance with company policies and procedures, and address any issues promptly.
7. Encouraging open communication: Foster a workplace culture that encourages open communication and reporting of concerns or issues. This can help employers identify and address potential problems before they escalate.
8. Providing ongoing training and development: Offer regular training and development opportunities to keep employees updated on industry standards, safety protocols, and company policies. This helps ensure that employees are well-equipped to perform their roles safely and effectively.

What Is a Background Check?

A background check is a process used by employers to verify a person’s identity, qualifications, criminal history, and other relevant information. This process helps the employer make an informed decision about the candidate’s suitability for a particular position and reduces the risk of negligent hiring.

Which Industries Are Most Prone to Negligent Hiring Lawsuits?

Industries that often face negligent hiring lawsuits include:

• Healthcare: Due to the sensitive nature of patient care, healthcare providers must ensure that their employees are qualified and have no history of misconduct.
• Transportation: Employers in the transportation industry are responsible for hiring drivers and operators who are not a risk to public safety.
• Childcare and education: Employers in these industries must ensure that their employees are suitable for working with children and do not have a history of abuse or misconduct.

Employer liability for employee’s acts applies under certain circumstances, especially when their negligence in hiring, training, or supervising the employee contributes to the harm caused by the employee.

Should I Contact a Lawyer Regarding Negligent Hiring Laws?

If you believe you have been a victim of negligent hiring or if you are an employer seeking guidance on how to protect yourself from negligent hiring lawsuits, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. They can provide advice, help you understand your rights, and represent you in any legal proceedings.