Are Assaults at Work Covered?

Dec 18, 2024 | WC & Other Laws

Are Assaults at Work Covered? – In Colorado, assaults may be covered by Workers’ Compensation if they’re considered work-related; however, whether they’re considered work-related can depend on the specific circumstances behind the assault.

What a judge will need to see is if you would’ve been assaulted if you weren’t working, and they will look at:

1. What caused the fight or dispute?

If the reason for the angry animosity was work, like an angry customer or a mad coworker, then it is more likely that the injury would be covered.

If they’re angry because, for example, you didn’t pay a bet, or if they’re upset about something unrelated to your job duties then it probably won’t be covered.

2. Where did it occur?

If the assault occurred at work while you’re on the clock, it will more likely be considered work-related, and that also includes parking lots. But if it happened outside of work, it’s less likely to be considered work-related.

3. Were you doing work duties at the time?

If you were working when the assault occurred it’s more likely to be considered work-related, but if you were off the clock or if you were roughhousing or playing around it probably won’t.

As always, there are exceptions. If the playing around was tolerated or even encouraged by your employer, then it could be considered work-related.

This kind of issue is complicated, and often it revolves around a specific action, for example, an attack could be covered, even if the dispute is personal, if the only way that your attacker could track you down is because they knew where you work and you had to be there.