Rahman v. State

¶1 Rizwana Rahman was injured while riding in a state vehicle as an unauthorized passenger. She filed suit against the State of Washington for damages associated with her injuries. The trial court summarily dismissed her complaint. We hold that as a matter of law the State is vicariously liable for Rizwana’s injuries under the doctrine of respondeat superior. We reverse and remand for further proceedings.

FACTS

¶2 Mohammad Shahidur Rahman was employed as a summer intern by the Washington State Department of Ecology (Department) from June 1 to August 31, 2005. He was assigned to the dam safety…