Some job descriptions are more complicated when it comes to wage and hour law; however, every company is responsible for ensuring compliance. In a recent case, truck drivers who worked for Anheuser-Busch are filing a lawsuit alleging that the brewing company discouraged employees from taking breaks for meals or rest. The plaintiffs have filed a $5 million lawsuit to recover compensation from the company for its failure to pay for overtime hours. The lawsuit was filed in a federal California Court and is a class action on behalf of all other Anheuser-Busch InBev drivers.
According to reports, the class could reach over 400 members depending on how many individuals are still working for the company and how many were employed over the past four years. Together the two divers have been with the company over 40 years. During that time, the plaintiffs worked many weeks in excess of 40 hours. Despite these long hours, the company has continued to deny the drivers overtime. Federal law requires that employees get an overtime rate of 1.5 times their regular pay for any overtime worked. In addition to denying them overtime, the employees were not allowed to take paid meal or rest breaks. Though the driver had a written policy to require the breaks, drivers were discouraged and even prevented from taking them.
Pay rates for the California drivers included a flat rate plus 10 cents per case of beer delivered. According to the complaint, the company used this structure to eliminate payments that would have covered periods for meals or rest breaks. The drivers asserted that they were paid the same amount based on the number of cases delivered and were not given any compensation for breaks. Given the payment structure, the drivers found it impossible to find time for a break and to be paid for meals. The plaintiffs are now seeking a minimum of $5 million in damages as well as additional compensation for attorney fees.
According to reports, the company has not issued a statement regarding the lawsuit. A representative said that they have not yet been served with the complaint. As with most defendant companies facing an employment lawsuit, Anheuser-Busch also claims that it is well aware of wage and hour law and is in compliance with state and federal requirements. If you believe that your employer has violated wage and hour laws, you may be entitled to back pay and overtime compensation. Our attorneys will take the time to review your case, explore your legal options, and help you protect your rights.
Employment lawsuits can be filed with assistance from the Nassiri Law Group, practicing in Los Angeles, Riverside, and Orange County. Call 949.375.4734.
More Blog Entries:
LGBT Workplace Discrimination Statistics, December 30, 2013, Los Angeles Employment Lawyer Blog
California Worker Wins Wrongful Termination Lawsuit, January 1, 2014, Los Angeles Employment Lawyer Blog