Am I liable to pay for accidental damages I caused while interning at a dental office?

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Am I liable to pay for accidental damages I caused while interning at a dental office?

I was working as an intern in a dental
office and accidentally dropped a very
expensive piece of equipment called a
sensor…5 to 10 grand. The dentist is
asking I pay for it and does not want
their insurance to pay cover it. My
insurance does not cover accidental
damages of equipment. I spoke with my
CDA claims and they said I am not
liable. What do you say?
Thanks you

Asked on April 5, 2017 under Insurance Law, California

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 6 years ago | Contributor

If you were careless in dropping it--which you probably were, since it's generally considered careless to drop an expensive piece of medical equipment--then you were negligent; and if you were negligent, then unfortunately, you are liable, or responsible, for the cost. An employee who negligently damages her employer's property--actually anyone who negligently damages another's property--is liable for it. The dentist could sue you for the value of the equipment and, based on what you write, very likely win.


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