Michigan workers’ comp lawyer discusses violence in the workplace and potential benefits that cover someone if they get hurt.
We have blogged about workplace violence several times in the past. Health care workers are especially vulnerable to patients and their families who get combative. This became even worse during the Covid-19 pandemic. Flight attendants have come under increased risk from passengers who refuse to comply with airline rules. Corrections officers are under constant threat from potentially dangerous inmates. Unfortunately, violence can occur in almost any industry. We have even seen Starbucks baristas get hurt when a customer becomes unruly. With all of this in mind, a question that arises from clients is, does workers’ comp cover workplace violence in Michigan? The answer is ‘yes’ if it arises out of and in the course of employment.
Michigan workers’ comp law
Michigan law protects employees who are hurt on-the-job regardless of fault. Workers’ comp benefits include medical treatment and payment of lost wages. In exchange, the employer gets protection from civil lawsuits. No pain and suffering will be available. To qualify for workers’ comp benefits, an event must arise out of and in the course of employment.
Does workers’ comp cover workplace violence between employees in Michigan?
In Michigan, workers’ comp does cover workplace violence between employees, provided the argument involved work-related issues. For example, if an employee punched another employee because he did the job incorrectly or borrowed tools without permission. Even personal conflicts related to stress on-the-job can lead to a potential work injury claim.
Are you covered for any injuries suffered during a robbery?
Employees hurt during a robbery are covered. It is quite common for an employee to not only suffer physical injuries but also mental or emotional trauma. Does workers’ comp cover workplace violence? Yes, employees who suffer physical injury and emotional trauma will be covered. This includes treatment for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Does workman’s compensation cover workplace violence that happens during social activities in Michigan?
Even social activities like playing in the company softball league can result in a compensable work injury claim in Michigan. For example, if an employee is required to participate in the game and a coworker takes the competition too far resulting in a violent act.
Does workers’ comp cover workplace violence that happens with customers in Michigan?
In Michigan, workers’ comp does cover workplace violence that happens from customers. We once represented a woman who was hurt when a customer thought she was cheating with her husband. It turns out that it was a case of mistaken identity and she had nothing to do with the extramarital affair. Even though the incident happened because of an outside event, she was able to collect workers’ comp benefits since she was on-the-job when it occurred.
Intentional tort lawsuits for pain and suffering
Acts of physical violence can also be deemed an intentional tort. This would allow an employee to sue for additional damages like pain and suffering. If the boss is the individual who committed the violent act, he or she can be sued outside workers’ comp, as an exception to the exclusive remedy provision.
Injured while on the job in Michigan? Contact our lawyers for a free consultation!
If you were injured on the job in Michigan due to a workplace violence incident and you are wondering if workers’ comp covers your injury and need help with your claim, call now at (855) 221-2667 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation with an experienced lawyer. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
For more than 40 years, our lawyers have been helping people like you who have suffered from on-the-job injuries in Michigan. We understand the physical, emotional, and psychological hardships you are experiencing from your workplace accident. We also have the skill, experience, and know-how to protect you and get you the best possible payout amount for your case.
To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Remember, every workers’ comp claim is different and must be negotiated on its own merits. Do not accept any payout amount without fully understanding your legal rights.
Michigan Workers’ Comp Lawyers law firm has consistently secured the largest settlements in the state and is the best choice for your case. We never charge a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 40 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
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