Which legal principle can be a defense for employers against liability for an employee's workplace injuries caused by another employee's negligence?

The Fellow Servant Rule is a legal principle that historically served as a defense for employers against liability in cases where an employee was injured as a result of another employee's negligence. Under this rule, an employer could argue that they were not responsible for the injuries sustained by an employee if those injuries were caused by the negligent actions of a fellow employee. The rationale behind this doctrine is that employees assume certain risks inherent in their work environment, including the risk of injury caused by coworkers.

While the Fellow Servant Rule has largely been modified or limited in modern employment law, understanding it is important for grasping the historical context of employer liability. In some jurisdictions, it has been replaced or supplemented by workers' compensation statutes designed to provide benefits to employees injured on the job without requiring proof of negligence.

Other principles like vicarious liability focus on the employer's direct responsibility for employee actions within the scope of employment, while assumption of risk and contributory negligence shift the liability considerations onto the employee. Understanding the distinctions between these concepts is crucial for anyone studying adjuster licensing and workplace laws.