In scope-of-employment analysis, which statement accurately describes detour and frolic?

• A. A detour is a substantial personal deviation and relieves liability for the employer.
• B. A detour is a minor deviation within the scope of employment and the employer is generally liable.
• C. A frolic is a minor deviation within the scope of employment.
• D. A frolic is always within the employee's personal responsibility.

Answer: (B)

In agency law, the key issue is whether the employee’s actions fall within the scope of employment for purposes of vicarious liability. A detour is a minor personal deviation from the job's tasks. Because the deviation is small and the employee still appears to be serving the employer’s goals, the conduct typically remains within the scope of employment, so the employer is generally liable for harm caused during a detour. A frolic, on the other hand, is a substantial and deliberate departure from the employer’s business for personal reasons; it’s treated as beyond the scope of employment, and the employer is usually not liable for damages arising from a frolic. So describing a detour as a minor deviation within the scope and the employer being generally liable is the correct understanding. The other statements mischaracterize the distinction: a detour does not relieve liability, a frolic is not a minor deviation within the scope, and a frolic is not automatically the employee’s personal responsibility in every case.