Son being deducted insurance excess.

[shed driver]

My son (20) is an apprentice mechanic at an independent garage specialising in commercial vehicles.

He had just finished replacing a seized brake calliper and took the van out for a test drive as per normal procedure.

He was run into by a vehicle that failed to stop, causing about £2000 of damage to the van. He now has to pay the insurance excess, £500. He is trying to get cctv from the bus in front of him to see if it shows the other vehicle.

I realise this is probably par for the course, it does seem a little unfair for an apprentice to have to suck up a sizeable excess.

Anyone have any thoughts as to whether there is any way he could minimise this?

SD.

[FWIW]

Disgusting behaviour from the employer.

[Jasandjules]

What does his contract say?

[Integroo]

There are strict rules around deductions from salary.

https://www.gov.uk/understanding-your-pay/deductio...

In short, an employer is not allowed to make deductions unless your son's contract says they can. It also cannot bring your son below minimum wage (I presume he isn't on huge cash being an apprentice).

Overall, poor form by his employer.

[shed driver]

Jasandjules said:

What does his contract say?

Not sure on that, when I see him I will find out.

I've heard reports from his friends that it is common in the industry.

SD.

[Jasandjules]

shed driver said:

Not sure on that, when I see him I will find out.

I've heard reports from his friends that it is common in the industry.

SD.

Common or not, what counts is whether they can lawfully do so.....

And of course after that what your son would do...

[shed driver]

Jasandjules said:

And of course after that what your son would do...

He's 20, in the middle of an apprenticeship in a job he loves. I think he will just fold and pay it. Sadly, I reckon his boss knows that too.

SD.

[Jasandjules]

Yes that is quite normal and common - and it is why companies act this way. But it is hard to blame him for letting it go.