A recent online discussion has raised questions about whether company lorry insurance covers non-work related usage—specifically, when employees use company vehicles after office hours to ferry domestic helpers or fellow workers. The debate, which unfolded on Facebook, sparked heated exchanges between commenters, with some defending the practice as harmless while others highlighted safety and legal concerns.
The issue has drawn attention because lorries in Singapore are commonly used to transport workers to worksites, but rules around private use, especially for ferrying non-employees, remain a grey area. Some netizens questioned if insurance policies would remain valid in such scenarios, while others dismissed the matter as needless nitpicking.
What the Public Had to Say
One commenter claimed that insurance would still apply as long as the lorry did not exceed 12 passengers, implying that the cover is tied to capacity rather than purpose of use. Another added that insurance policies generally only extend to authorised company staff, suggesting that domestic helpers or friends would not be covered in the event of an accident.
Not everyone was concerned, however. Many netizens brushed off the original post as unnecessary “kaypoh” behaviour, urging the complainant to “mind their own business”. Some pointed out that lorries have been used for informal transport for decades, particularly on Sundays or public holidays when migrant workers gather for social outings.
The Legal and Safety Considerations
While some may see it as harmless, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) regulations are clear: company lorries are primarily intended for work-related transport. Using them for non-work purposes, especially to ferry individuals not covered under the company’s insurance policy, may void insurance protection in the event of an accident.
Legal experts note that if an accident were to occur during such after-hours usage, the company could be held liable for damages, and injured passengers not listed under the policy may face difficulties in seeking compensation.
Ultimately, while the practice may be widespread, it highlights the need for employers and employees to understand their insurance coverage and the risks involved in bending the rules. For domestic helpers and workers alike, safety and compliance should take precedence over convenience.