Every employer tries to provide a safe work environment, but conflicts between employees can sometimes escalate into physical confrontations. If an employee is injured in a violent incident, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation and could hold their employer legally responsible. Below are answers to the common questions that business owners often have about violent workplace incidents.

What to Know About Workplace Violence 

What causes workplace violence?

Many workplace incidents are related to robberies or other acts of violence by individuals with no relationship to the business. Others may be the result of domestic violence, in which an employee’s partner physically attacks someone on the premises.

Angry customers also instigate many situations that result in injuries, but some incidents are caused by one worker attacking another. The causes of these attacks can be varied, including situations that occur outside of work.

Are employees injured in violent attacks eligible for workers’ compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system that covers almost all injuries that employees experience as a result of their job duties. As long as the injured parties weren't the instigators of the attack, they'll likely be eligible for medical and full wage replacement benefits.

Can injured employees file a lawsuit against their employer?

The workers’ compensation system typically protects employers from lawsuits, but you may still be liable for damages caused by negligence. For instance, an injured employee may pursue a suit if their employer hired someone with a history of violence. You may also be liable if you fail to invest in workplace safety programs or respond to complaints of aggressive behaviors.

How can you prevent workplace violence?

Every employer should commit to having a violence-free workplace. This includes training employees and managers to recognize warning signs and responding quickly to threats and other dangerous behaviors. Instituting a zero-tolerance policy toward violence will help minimize the risk to your employees and organization.

If your business is involved in a lawsuit related to on-the-job violence, the legal team at Alves Law Office will help protect your interests. Their attorneys have worked with clients across Los Angeles, providing detailed legal guidance in a variety of areas, including workers’ compensation and employee misconduct cases. To schedule a consultation with this accomplished legal team, call (213) 465-9800. Contact them online for more information.