The buck stops where? [contractual law]

This paper discusses the need for businesses to keep updated on the latest changes in the law especially those that could lead to a legal precedent and impact their current working practices. To illustrate this point, the case of Viasystems Ltd. versus Thermal Transfer Ltd. is cited. The case centered on the issue of dual vicarious liability and has had a significant impact on the commercial relationships between contractor and sub-contractor, with the Court of Appeals deciding that both contractor and sub-contractor split the cost of damages. This ruling underlines the need for businesses to be fully covered by insurance and to insist that any subcontractors employed are properly insured.