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The scales of justice on a plain background

Whatman v Pearson

1868

Posted By lanbuk.com

Facts

A carter, allowed no break, left his horse and cart unattended outside his home during his lunch. The horse bolted and caused damage.

Issue

Was he still in the ?

Held

Yes; the employer was liable.

Principle

Doing an authorised job in an unauthorised way stays within the course of employment.

Why it matters

Course of employment.

Cited in these chapters

Cite this page

Whatman v Pearson (Lanbuk) <https://www.lanbuk.com/llb/torts/cases/whatman-v-pearson> accessed 31 October 2026

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This summary is a Lanbuk study aid based on the generally known facts and reports of the case. It is not legal advice.