Compensation for Workplace Violence & Assault in Colorado
“Help! I was assaulted at work.”
Workplace violence has been an important topic throughout the U.S. in recent years. Most instances of workplace violence involve complex relationships and disputes that simmer for a long time before the conflict eventually boils over and someone reacts forcibly.
Incidents of workplace violence or assault can result in serious injuries. This is why it’s important for those who have been a victim of such crimes to retain an experienced workers’ compensation injury lawyer to represent them.
Employer liability for workplace violence
An employer is liable for an injury a worker sustains as a result of workplace violence or assault, whether the worker was the initial aggressor or simply a victim. Moreover, it doesn’t matter whether the altercation was between two coworkers, or if it involved a third party.
However, Colorado law specifically states that there must be a connection between the act of violence and the employment. If the injury was merely the result of a personal dispute that happened to erupt at the workplace, then a causal relationship may be lacking and benefits will not be paid. In any workplace assault case, the specific details of how an injury occurred are central to the claim.
Occupations in Colorado most prone to violence
While many instances of workplace violence occur in manufacturing jobs among coworkers, occupations that require interaction with the general public also create a higher risk for workplace violence. Those at-risk fields include:
- Retail workers
- Leisure and hospitality workers
- Government employees
- Construction workers
- Agricultural workers
- Wholesale trade workers
Workers’ compensation claims arising from violence in these fields can be established, but it requires evidence of a causal connection with the employment.
Multiple areas of recovery
Following an incident of workplace violence, you may be able to press criminal or civil charges against the aggressor and seek financial recovery for your medical bills, lost wages, and any long-term injuries or disabilities that you sustained. These claims can include emotional distress as well as physical rehabilitation, and even a wrongful death claim in the event of a fatality.
Why strong legal representation is essential
Establishing a claim following an incident of workplace violence or assault can be complicated, so it’s important to retain an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. If you have been injured by an assault on the job, you need an attorney by your side who is ready and willing to fight for your rights.
Contact a workers’ compensation legal professional immediately
Don’t make the mistake of attempting to file a workers’ compensation claim on your own. Always contact our workplace injury professionals. We know how to craft a compelling case to secure maximum compensation.
If you’ve been injured in an incident involving workplace violence in Colorado, contact the attorneys at the The Babcock Law Firm today.
