Positive relationships between co-workers can drastically alter a work environment for the better. When coworkers get along and sometimes even have fun together, overall productivity may increase. People who are in good moods provide better customer service and may be more diligent about fulfilling their job responsibilities.
Unfortunately, amicable workplace relationships can sometimes trigger questionable behavior. Horseplay in the workplace is a natural occurrence when people enjoy it working together. Pranks, jokes and outright silliness can create levity and camaraderie. Horseplay at work can also create risk. One employee’s attempt to amuse others could unintentionally result in workplace injuries.
What happens to professionals injured due to coworkers engaging in horseplay?
Workers’ compensation could prove helpful
Most employers in New Jersey must carry workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ compensation coverage indemnifies employers and protects against worker lawsuits related to on-the-job injuries.
Workers’ compensation benefits include health coverage for work-related medical challenges and disability benefits to replace lost wages. Employees hurt by their co-workers may feel unsure about their rights. Thankfully, workers’ compensation offers no-fault protection.
It does not matter who was to blame for a workplace injury. The main factor that determines whether coverage is available or not is whether the medical condition is the result of a worker’s employment. Horseplay that leads to a machinery incident or a slip-and-fall can make the injured worker eligible for workers’ compensation.
Employees generally need to report their injuries to their employer and ensure that the medical professionals treating them are aware that the injury occurred on the job. Provided that they follow the appropriate procedures, they can seek benefits that help them address their injuries.
While people might think that they can hold their coworkers responsible for unsafe conduct at work, a personal injury lawsuit against a coworker may not be an option. Vicarious liability rules generally make employers liable for the negligence of workers while they are on the clock, making a lawsuit against the employee at fault unlikely to succeed in many cases.
Those anticipating a complicated workers’ compensation claim due to the origins of their injuries may benefit from retaining legal representation. Partnering with an attorney can allow injured employees to focus on their medical recovery instead of worrying about paperwork as they pursue workers’ compensation benefits.