Most people associate workers’ compensation with slip-and-fall incidents, machinery accidents, or repetitive stress injuries. But what happens if you’re assaulted on the job by a coworker, customer, or even a stranger? Workplace violence is a growing concern across many industries, and it can leave victims with not only physical injuries but also emotional trauma and financial stress.
If you’ve been assaulted at work, you may be wondering: Can I file a workers’ compensation claim? The short answer is yes, but with some important caveats. In Minnesota, certain conditions must be met for a workplace assault to qualify for benefits.
Below, we break down when you may be eligible, what benefits you can pursue, and why speaking with a qualified attorney can make all the difference.
When Is an Assault Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation laws in Minnesota generally cover injuries that arise “out of and in the course of employment.” This includes injuries sustained while performing job-related duties, so long as the incident wasn’t purely personal in nature.
For an assault to qualify under workers’ comp, the incident must typically meet one of the following criteria:
- The attack was job-related: For example, a retail worker was assaulted by a shoplifter, or a nurse was attacked by a patient.
- The workplace or environment increased the risk: Certain jobs – like security, delivery, or healthcare – carry higher risks of violence, and assaults that happen during such roles are more likely to be covered.
- The conflict arose from a work-related dispute: If a disagreement over job duties escalates into physical violence, the victim may qualify for benefits.
However, if the assault stems from a purely personal disagreement, say, a dispute over a romantic relationship or a fight outside of work, workers’ compensation might not apply. That’s why it’s so important to consult a workplace accident lawyer in Minnesota to evaluate the specifics of your case.
What Types of Injuries Are Covered?
Workplace assaults can cause a wide range of injuries, both physical and psychological. You may be eligible for compensation if you sustain the following.
- Broken bones or concussions
- Lacerations or bruising
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Long-term disability due to physical or emotional trauma
Whether your injuries are visible or internal, Minnesota law recognizes the legitimacy of workplace assault claims if the event meets the criteria for work-relatedness. An injured-at-work lawyer in Minnesota can help ensure that all aspects of your injury are properly documented.
What Benefits Can You Receive?
If your claim is approved, Minnesota’s workers’ compensation system may provide compensation for the following.
- Medical treatment: Including hospital visits, therapy, rehabilitation, and prescriptions
- Wage loss benefits: Temporary or permanent partial disability payments if you’re unable to work or must work reduced hours
- Vocational rehabilitation: Training or assistance if you’re unable to return to your former job
- Permanent impairment benefits: If the injury results in lasting physical or psychological damage
Even if your employer disputes the cause or severity of your injuries, you don’t have to go through the process alone. Compensation lawyers near St. Paul can help you file the claim correctly, appeal denials, and pursue the full range of benefits you’re entitled to.
Can You Sue the Attacker?
In addition to filing for workers’ compensation, you may have grounds to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the individual who assaulted you. While workers’ comp prevents you from suing your employer in most cases, it does not shield third parties, like a violent customer, subcontractor, or even a coworker acting outside the scope of their job duties.
In such situations, you could seek compensation for the following damages.
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross misconduct)
An experienced workplace accident lawyer in Minnesota can evaluate whether you’re eligible for both a workers’ comp claim and a separate personal injury suit.
What If Your Employer Refuses to File the Claim?
Unfortunately, not all employers handle assault claims appropriately. Some may deny the injury occurred on the job, fail to report the incident, or even retaliate against the victim. This behavior is not only unethical – it may be illegal.
You have the right to the following.
- Report the injury to your employer within 14 days
- Seek immediate medical care
- File a workers’ compensation claim directly with the Department of Labor and Industry
- Hire an injured-at-work lawyer in Minnesota to protect your rights and challenge the employer’s stance
Your safety and health should always come first. If you’re facing resistance, legal support can make all the difference in securing the care and compensation you deserve.
Contact Osterbauer Today
Being assaulted at work is traumatic enough. You shouldn’t also have to fight for your right to compensation. Whether you were injured during a robbery, assaulted by a patient, or attacked by a coworker, you have legal options.
Contact Osterbauer today to schedule a consultation and start your comeback journey. Our experienced compensation lawyers near St. Paul are ready to listen, advise, and advocate for you every step of the way.