Saaba v. Deshi Senior Center, LLC

**Worker Wins $80,000 After Employer Breaks Personal Property** This case involved Dr. Martin Trepel, whose valuable African tribal carving was broken while being transported by his employer, Roadway Express, Inc. The carving was apparently damaged during a work-related move or transport situation covered under employment arrangements. Dr. Trepel sued for breach of contract, arguing his employer was responsible for the damage to his personal property. A jury agreed with him and awarded $80,000 in damages to cover the loss of the valuable carving. Initially, the lower court denied Dr. Trepel's request to have his legal fees paid by the employer. However, on appeal, a higher court overturned that decision. The appeals court ruled that under the Household Goods Transportation Act, Dr. Trepel was entitled to have his reasonable attorney's fees covered by Roadway Express in addition to the $80,000 damage award. **What This Means for Workers:** This ruling shows that employees can successfully hold employers accountable when company negligence damages personal property during work-related activities. Additionally, workers may be entitled to have their legal costs covered when they win such cases, making it more feasible to pursue legitimate claims against employers.