Harding Logistics Wins Appeal on Unemployment Benefits
A divided Arkansas Court of Appeals sided with Harding Logistics Inc. on Tuesday, reversing a state Board of Review decision that awarded unemployment benefits to a former driver. The court found the driver quit without good cause connected to the work, so he did not qualify for benefits.
The company fired the driver after he refused to accept a load that would take him homeward, but the driver claimed he had resigned instead. The Board of Review accepted the driver’s version and approved benefits, arguing his reasons for leaving were connected to the work. The company appealed, arguing that the driver’s actions amounted to quitting without good cause.
The Court of Appeals reviewed the evidence and ruled that the driver’s conduct showed he voluntarily quit. It held that the company’s offer of a trip home met any reasonable expectation the driver might have, and the driver’s refusal proved he left on his own. The court said the Board had stretched the concept of “good cause” beyond what the law allows. This decision clarifies that drivers who turn down reasonable assignments cannot later claim unemployment benefits by saying they were fired. Trucking companies now have clearer protection when a driver walks away from a job offer that includes a route home.
Bottom Line: Drivers who refuse reasonable loads forfeit unemployment claims.
https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/10861700/harding-logistics-inc-v-director/