Respondeat superior is a Latin term that means "let the master answer."
In the context of the law, respondeat superior is a legal principle that means that an employer is liable for an employee's unlawful or wrongful actions when the employee is doing official company business. This means that the employer can be sued for such actions.
Respondeat superior is very important for liability law, because it prevents employees from being solely liable for their actions while performing duties for the company, and instead transfers the liability to the employer. So, for example, if a taxi driver accidentally causes a car accident while conducting business for the taxi company, then the taxi company could be held liable. However, in order for the employer to be held liable, the employee's act must be within the scope of the job.