What is the term for when an employer is held legally responsible for an employee's negligence while working for someone else?

The term that describes when an employer is held legally responsible for an employee's negligence while working on behalf of someone else is vicarious liability. This legal doctrine holds that an employer can be held liable for the negligent actions of an employee if those actions occur in the course of their employment. The rationale behind vicarious liability is based on the idea that employers benefit from their employees' work and therefore should also bear some responsibility for their actions during work-related activities.

Vicarious liability is essential in various contexts, particularly in workplaces where employees are expected to perform duties that may involve risks to others. This accountability serves to protect the public and encourages employers to foster a safe working environment.

The other terms address different legal relationships or concepts, such as the borrowed servant doctrine, which pertains to when an employee temporarily works under the direction of a different employer. The principal-agent relationship focuses on the relationship where one party (the agent) is authorized to act on behalf of another (the principal). Shared responsibility does not have a specific legal definition related to employee negligence in this context.