Is employee liable for damage to insured work truck?

[beachmama]

What is the name of your state? New Jersey. I did construction work for a small business as my summer job. I submitted my time sheet to my boss for the hours I worked in the last pay period. The next day, I scraped the side of the work truck while backing it into the driveway. The boss says he will not pay me until I get an estimate for the damage to the truck. He has insurance, but says that the damage won't be covered because it is less than the deductible. The pay he owes me is about $325. He says I am responsible for the damage to the truck because he won't recover it with his insurance.
Am I? Can I force him to pay me even though I scratched the truck? I did not sign a contract saying I am responsible for damage to the work truck.
Thanks.

 

[Beth3]

Yes, you can force him to pay you even though you damaged the truck. Your employer may not hold your paycheck hostage under any circumstances.

Whether or not he can hold you financially responsible for the damage to the truck is a separate matter and will be governed by NJ employment reg's. cbg (a regular responder here) can likely advise you on this; otherwise you can contact NJ's Department of Labor and inquire - and file complaint about your paycheck being withheld.