There are certain professions that have a strong association with violence. For example, people working in security careers and law enforcement likely understand that they are at risk of violence on the job.
However, professionals in many different industries can end up hurt due to an unstable co-worker or aggression from members of the public. Some of the most at-risk professionals include retail workers, hospital employees and those working at educational institutions.
Violence can lead to trauma, disfiguring scars, broken bones and even brain injuries. Those affected by workplace violence may wonder what rights they have and how to cover their costs. They may have substantial medical expenses to address and also lost wages to consider.
How can those hurt by violence in the workplace recoup their losses?
Workers’ compensation could potentially help
Direct-hire employees paid on a salary or hourly basis may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits after they get hurt at work. The duration of their employment arrangement and whether they put in 40 hours a week do not influence their eligibility. Instead, what matters is that they are an employee and their medical condition directly relates to their career.
Injured professionals can file workers’ compensation claims for injuries that result from interpersonal violence on the job. Whether a coworker punched an employee or they got hurt breaking up a fight at a school, they may be eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Fault does not factor into the equation in most cases. The injured professional can receive medical benefits that cover the full cost of their treatment expenses. They may also be able to recoup some of their lost wages through disability benefits.
Those already coping with the trauma of a violent attack at work may have a hard time trying to make sense of dense paperwork and the workers’ compensation regulations that govern their benefits. The support of an attorney familiar with the application process and the benefits available could prove invaluable.
Filing a workers’ compensation claim in response to violent occurrences on the job can make a major difference for injured professionals. Those coping with medical expenses and lost income may need workers’ compensation benefits to prevent a violent incident on the job from causing permanent financial damage.