Case Overview
Former Texas Domino’s delivery drivers filed a lawsuit against RPC Pizza, Inc. and related entities, alleging that the company failed to adequately reimburse drivers for the costs of using their personal vehicles to make deliveries.
The lawsuit claimed that delivery drivers incurred substantial out-of-pocket expenses while performing their jobs, including:
- Gasoline
- Vehicle maintenance and repairs
- Auto insurance
- Tire replacement
- Vehicle depreciation
According to the allegations, the reimbursement rates paid to drivers did not reasonably account for these business expenses. As a result, drivers’ effective hourly wages were allegedly reduced below the federal minimum wage, in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
The IRS mileage reimbursement rate was set at 65.5 cents per mile during the relevant period, reflecting the increased cost of operating a vehicle amid rising fuel prices and inflation. The lawsuit alleged that the company’s reimbursement practices fell short of the actual expenses incurred by Texas delivery drivers.
Resolution of the Litigation
Update: The matter has been resolved. The case was filed as Travis v. RPC Pizza, Inc. et al. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas.
Understanding Delivery Driver Wage Claims
Employers that require workers to use their personal vehicles for business purposes may be required to reimburse expenses at a level sufficient to prevent employees’ wages from falling below the federal minimum wage. When reimbursement rates do not adequately cover vehicle-related costs, delivery drivers may have claims for unpaid wages under the FLSA.
These cases often involve an analysis of actual vehicle expenses, mileage reimbursement methods, and the impact of unreimbursed business costs on employee compensation.
About Forester Haynie
Forester Haynie represents workers in wage and hour litigation nationwide, including claims involving minimum wage violations, unpaid wages, and delivery driver reimbursement practices. The firm has recovered more than $20 million on behalf of delivery drivers across the country.
The attorneys at Forester Haynie are committed to helping workers understand their rights and pursue compensation when employers fail to comply with federal wage laws. The firm advances all costs of litigation and charges no upfront fees. Attorneys’ fees are only paid if compensation is successfully recovered.
Contact Forester Haynie
Have you worked as a pizza delivery driver and paid out of pocket for gas, maintenance, or other vehicle expenses that were not adequately reimbursed? Contact Forester Haynie to learn more about your rights and determine whether you may have a claim.