Driver Found to be Employee of Black Car Service Following Framed Issue Hearing in Landmark Ruling

In a decision that could send shockwaves through the rideshare industry and others that rely on independent contractors, Westchester Supreme Court Justice Lewis J. Lubell ruled for the Firm’s client that an employer/employee relationship existed between Park West Executive Services d/b/a Town Car International (“Park West”), an executive black car service, and a Park West driver that was involved in a fatal, multi-car accident on Interstate 95 in Stamford. Park West and its insurance company had argued that the driver was an independent contractor.  The decision will have significant ramifications on the insurance available to cover the injuries and losses arising out of the accident.  The Court made its determination following a multi-day framed-issue hearing at which both parties offered extensive evidence to support their respective positions. Peter S. Dawson and Brian Donnellan handled the framed issue hearing and briefing for the Firm’s client.  Read the Decision Here.