Nearly anyone might be at risk of a violent incident on the job. Employees ranging from nurses and teachers to retail workers could end up injured due to an assault or other crime committed by a member of the general public while they are at work.
Obviously, criminals are largely responsible for their own actions, but they may escape arrest or may lack the resources necessary to compensate the people they hurt. Can employees injured due to crimes in the workplace qualify for workers’ compensation benefits?
Any on-the-clock incident could lead to benefits
Technically, workers’ compensation in Florida can provide coverage for any medical condition that arises through the course of employment or due to job responsibilities. A worker injured by a thief attempting to rob a business or an angry former client who became aggressive may potentially have grounds for a workers’ compensation claim.
Even if the person who becomes violent is a co-worker, workers’ compensation benefits could be available. Proving who is at fault for a worker’s injuries is not part of the claims process.
Employees can rely on workers’ compensation to pay for their medical costs and for a portion of lost wages while they recover. Reporting the incident and pursuing workers’ compensation benefits can be the best solution available — especially in cases where an employee may miss multiple days of work or where their job does not provide health insurance coverage.
Having experienced legal guidance can help workers initiate claims and take other appropriate steps to address the costs generated by injuries resulting from a crime committed in their workplace. Learning more about workers’ compensation benefits can help limit their economic losses.