I work in the towing industry operating a heavy wrecker. Recently, while towing a road tractor, (semi), the truck suffered extreme damage due to the way that I towed it. I have towed numerous trucks in same manner during the time that I have worked in this field and never had any problems. I was never taught not to tow in this manner, in fact just the opposite. Now my employer has deucted over $1100 in just two paychecks (this comes to about 70% of my pay for these two checks) and is saying that he is going to sue me for the rest of the damages ($4000 more) I did nothing wrong that I knew of at the time of the incident-in fact, I have a signed statement from the owner of the trucks lead mechanic that I did not damage the vehicle negligently or intentionally. Can I be held liable, especially when the employer has insurance for just this type of situation?

It really may depend on what is in your employment contract. I would suggest that you speak with an attorney to discuss your legal options. You can locate one through the attorney locator on Lawinfo's home page at http://www.lawinfo.com/. Some do offer free consultations.

Get,
Who taught you to tow in that fashion? If it was the current employer, then, no, they should not expect you to pay. Even if it was someone else, as long as it was no obvious error on your part, they should have a difficult time pinning it on you.

More importantly, I don't believe an employer can withhold such a high percentage, although I'm admittedly unsure about the rule in GA. My suggestion: call or stop by the Department of Labor and ask them. They should be able to give you an answer.