Beauchesne v. David London & Co.
Rhode Island Supreme Court
375 A.2d 920 (1977)
- Written by Serena Lipski, JD
Facts
Albert Beauchesne (plaintiff) was an employee of David London & Co. (London) (defendant), a small company owned and run by a father and his three sons. London paid for and held an annual Christmas party at the company’s premises on the afternoon of Christmas Eve. Employees could choose to attend the party or go home early, and they were paid for a full day regardless of whether they chose to attend the party. On December 24, 1974, all five London employees, including Beauchesne, and the three London brothers attended the party. The London brothers handed out paychecks and Christmas bonuses during the party. Alcohol was present at the party, and employees were permitted to drink. Beauchesne became intoxicated and fell out of a window, resulting in serious injuries. Beauchesne filed a claim for workers’ compensation. The trial commissioner awarded benefits, and the full commission affirmed. London appealed.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Kelleher, J.)
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