Model Answer

Introduction

The scenario presents a challenging situation where the manager of Company A, during a crucial negotiation dinner with the manager of Company B, becomes an eyewitness to a serious road accident caused by the latter. This incident raises significant ethical, legal, and professional dilemmas that the manager must navigate.

Body

Dilemmas Faced

1. Ethical Dilemma
   • The manager is conflicted between the ethical obligation to report the truth about the accident and the potential negative impact on the critical business deal. Honesty versus self-interest becomes a central theme.
2. Legal Dilemma
   • Aware of strict laws surrounding road accidents, the manager knows they must provide an accurate account to law enforcement. However, doing so could lead to severe consequences for the manager of Company B, potentially jeopardizing the deal.
3. Professional Dilemma
   • The manager must balance their professional responsibility to protect their company’s interests against the moral obligation to uphold truth and justice. This decision carries long-term implications for their reputation and credibility.

Potential Responses

1. Prioritize Truth and Justice
   • The manager could choose to provide an honest account to the authorities, reflecting a commitment to ethical conduct and the law, despite the risk to the business deal and potential repercussions for the other manager.
2. Mitigate the Consequences
   • The manager might offer a factual account that minimizes the culpability of the other manager without completely absolving them, striking a balance between honesty and protecting their company’s interests.
3. Seek Legal Advice
   • Consulting legal experts could help the manager understand potential ramifications and explore ways to navigate the situation while adhering to legal obligations.
4. Negotiate a Settlement
   • The manager could consider negotiating a settlement with the injured motorcyclist, compensating for injuries and damages, thus addressing immediate consequences while mitigating legal prosecution.
5. Maintain Open Communication
   • Engaging in transparent discussions with the manager of Company B to explore mutually agreeable solutions could help in managing the fallout from the incident.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the manager must carefully evaluate the potential risks, legal obligations, and moral considerations. Balancing honesty, justice, and the interests of their company requires thoughtful deliberation of the potential long-term consequences of their decision.