A Different Kind Of Work Injury: Workplace Violence

For some, workplace violence is part of the job. Even those not employed in law enforcement can encounter violence at their workplace. Workplace violence can be devastating to everyone involved, but it might help if the employer covers their employees' medical and psychological treatment as a result. Getting covered for injuries means being payed some valuable benefits, and it's important for employees who are affected to take action to get those benefits. To find out how an employer's workers' compensation insurance plan covers incidences of workplace violence, read on.

Insurance Coverage Varies

Not every incident is covered, and each state governs their workers' compensation carriers differently. Any time an unusual work-related injury arises, there exists the potential for problems with a claim. For that reason, you might need to speak to a workers' compensation lawyer if you have questions about coverage or if your claims are being held up outright denied.

Common Workers' Compensation Benefits

Workers' compensation, when approved, pays for medical treatment, counseling, and a partial salary for those unable to work. In some cases, workers that are unable to return to their jobs are entitled to additional benefits like rehabilitation services, job training, job and resume help, and more. Finally, workers deemed to be permanently disabled may be eligible for a lump-sum monetary settlement.

Don't Expect Coverage When This Happens

The below examples demonstrate that the coverage can be very situation-dependent. Workplace violence is a wide category of injury, but it is the seemingly random acts that are usually covered by workers' compensation plans. If the perpetrator of the violence had a personal vendetta against a coworker, then it might not be covered. If the act could have occurred anywhere and to almost anybody, the hurt worker has a better chance of reaping workers' comp benefits. The below workplace incidents may not be covered:

1. You and a coworker are involved in what you thought was a friendly rivalry throughout the years. One day, though, the coworker arrives at work and attacks you with a knife.
2. You are having a love affair with the spouse of a coworker. Your coworker might use their work privileges to gain entry to your office and poison your lunch.

Almost all (other than of a personal nature) other types of situations are covered. If you are having problems getting the workers' compensation insurer to approve or pay you the benefits you deserve, speak to workers' compensation lawyer about your case. Reach out to a workers' compensation attorney to learn more.