BUGusa, Inc., Worksheet
Use the scenarios in the Bugusa, Inc., link located on the student website to answer the following questions.
Scenario: WIRETIME, Inc., Advertisement
Has WIRETIME, Inc., committed any torts? If so, explain.
WIRETIME, Inc. (WIRETIME) has committed defamation because WIRETIME wrote damaging words about BUGusa, Inc.’s (BUGusa) product. All four elements of defamation are present in this case. First, defamatory statements were made, a 3rd party became involved, the defamatory statement singled out one organization, and lastly, harm was inflicted on BUGusa clientele. BUGusa may sue WIRETIME for trade libel due to the damaging article wrote against them and seek retribution.
Scenario: WIRETIME, Inc. (Janet)
Has WIRETIME, Inc. committed any torts? If so, explain.
WIRETIME interfered with a current contractual relationship in this case. WIRETIME knew of the agreement Janet had with BUGusa and convinced Janet to break the contractual agreement she has existing with her employer. Janet breached her contract with BUGusa by accepting a job working for WIRETIME. The contract stated Janet is not to work for BUGusa’s competitor for another two years, thus violating a non-compete clause.
Scenario: WIRETIME, Inc. (Steve and Walter)
Discuss any liability BUGusa, Inc., may have for Walter’s actions.
In this case, the security guard falsely imprisoned Steve. Walter was acting on his own accord and adhering to his job responsibilities, but Walter exceeded his authority by threatening Steve, creating a conflict. WIRETIME was also guilty of stealing BUGusa’s trade secrets by assigning Steve to work undercover.
Scenario: BUGusa, Inc., Plant Parking Lot
What defenses may be available to BUGusa, Inc.? Explain your answer.
BUGusa could use protection under assumption of danger defense. The dangers were known to the workers but they continued working without taking any actions to rectify the situation in the parking