08/28/2026

Workplace Violence Is Increasing: What Injured Workers Need to Know

Workers' Compensation,

workplace violence is no longer limited to high-risk occupations or isolated incidents. Across industries, employees are experiencing an increase in physical assaults, threats, and violent encounters while simply doing their jobs. Whether the incident involves a customer, patient, coworker, or third party, the consequences can be life-changing.

If you’ve been injured during a violent incident at work, you may be wondering what your legal options are, whether workers’ compensation applies, and if your employer can be held accountable. At Deuterman Law Group, we’ve helped injured workers understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Workplace Violence Is More Common Than Many People Realize

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, hundreds of workers lose their lives each year due to workplace violence, while tens of thousands suffer nonfatal injuries requiring time away from work. Healthcare professionals, retail employees, social service workers, delivery drivers, and public-facing employees consistently experience some of the highest rates of workplace violence.

Research from the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) also highlights a troubling trend. Workplace assault claims have increased in recent years, particularly in healthcare and social assistance settings. Women account for a significant percentage of workplace violence injury claims, largely due to their representation in patient-facing professions. The report also found that assaults resulting in lost workdays tend to be more severe than many other workplace injuries.

While these statistics are alarming, they also reinforce an important point: workplace violence is a recognized occupational hazard, and injured employees have legal protections.

What Counts as Workplace Violence?

Many people assume workplace violence only refers to shootings or highly publicized attacks. In reality, the definition is much broader.

Workplace violence can include:

• Physical assaults by customers or clients
• Violence committed by patients in healthcare facilities
• Assaults by coworkers or supervisors
• Robberies that result in employee injuries
• Physical altercations involving vendors or visitors

If you were injured by a coworker at work, your legal options may differ depending on the circumstances, but you should never assume that you are without protection simply because the person who harmed you was another employee.

Common Injuries After a Workplace Assault

Violent incidents can leave lasting physical and emotional damage. Some injuries are immediately visible, while others develop over time.

Common injuries include:

• Head and traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Neck, back, and spinal injuries
• Cuts, lacerations, and facial injuries
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety, depression, and emotional trauma

Even injuries that appear minor initially can worsen over time. Prompt medical treatment not only protects your health but also creates documentation that may become important if you pursue a workplace violence injury claim.

Can You Receive Compensation After Workplace Violence?

In many situations, yes.

North Carolina workers’ compensation generally covers injuries that arise out of and in the course of employment. This means workers’ compensation for workplace assault may be available if you were attacked while performing your job duties.

Depending on your situation, workplace violence workers’ compensation benefits may include:

• Medical treatment
• Wage replacement benefits if you’re unable to work
• Compensation for permanent impairment
• Vocational rehabilitation services when appropriate

However, every case is different. Insurance companies often investigate violent incidents carefully and may dispute whether the assault was truly work-related. Having experienced legal guidance early in the process can help protect your claim.

Third parties may also bear responsibility. For example, if negligent security at a commercial property contributed to an assault, a claim against the property owner may be possible.

Understanding your legal rights if attacked at work requires evaluating all potential sources of recovery rather than assuming workers’ compensation is your only option.

What To Do After a Workplace Assault

The actions you take immediately after an assault can significantly impact both your recovery and your legal claim.

First, seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor.

Next, report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. Make sure an official incident report is completed and request a copy for your records.

If possible:

• Photograph visible injuries.
• Preserve torn clothing or damaged personal belongings.
• Obtain contact information for witnesses.
• Keep copies of medical records and work restrictions.
• Follow all recommended medical treatment.

Finally, speak with an experienced lawyer before accepting claim decisions or settlement offers. Insurance companies often move quickly after serious incidents, and understanding your rights early can make a meaningful difference.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Recovering from a violent workplace incident involves more than healing physical injuries. Many workers struggle with emotional trauma, financial uncertainty, and questions about returning to work safely.

An experienced attorney can evaluate your situation, explain your legal options, communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, and determine whether additional claims may exist beyond workers’ compensation.

If you’re searching for a lawyer, it’s important to choose a legal team that understands both the workers’ compensation system and the complexities surrounding workplace violence cases.

At Deuterman Law Group, we understand how overwhelming these situations can be. Our team has spent decades helping injured workers throughout North Carolina protect their rights, pursue the benefits they deserve, and move forward with confidence. If you’ve been injured because of workplace violence, we’re here to listen, answer your questions, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

FAQs

Q1: Can emotional trauma alone qualify for workers’ compensation after workplace violence?

Ans: Psychological injuries such as PTSD may be compensable, but eligibility depends on the facts of the incident and applicable North Carolina law.

Q2: What if the person who assaulted me was not an employee?

Ans: You may still qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, and depending on the circumstances, you could also have a claim against the individual or another responsible third party.

Q3: Will filing a workers’ compensation claim affect my employment?

Ans: North Carolina law generally prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for exercising their legal rights under the workers’ compensation system.

Q4: What happens if there were no witnesses to the assault?

Ans: A lack of witnesses does not automatically prevent you from pursuing benefits. Medical records, security footage, incident reports, and other evidence may help support your claim.

Q5: How long do I have to report a workplace assault?

Ans: You should notify your employer as soon as possible after the incident. Delays can complicate your claim and may affect your ability to recover benefits.