Private right of action, employer liability.

William Ratcliffe appeals a lower court's ruling in a civil action. John McKeever filed suit against Ratcliffe for injuries he suffered when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Ratcliffe's chauffeur. While returning from a work-related journey, the chauffeur met a friend and offered to drive the friend to his destination. En route, the chauffeur struck McKeever. The victim subsequently filed suit against Ratcliffe.

A superior court jury found in favor of McKeever, the plaintiff. Ratcliffe contends the jury was given faulty instructions and now appeals.

McKeever wins. The Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts ruled the jury received correct and appropriate instructions. The court affirmed the ruling of the lower jurisdiction.