What to Do If You Were Attacked at Work: Compensation Guide

Being attacked at work can be frightening. Most workers are left shocked, insecure, and wondering what to do. If you were attacked at work, you might be able to claim compensation.

This guide advises you on what to do once you have been attacked, your rights, and how to claim. The steps are written in simple words so you can understand easily.

Report the Attack Immediately

If you are attacked at work, report it straight away. Tell your manager or supervisor. Ask them to record it in the accident book. This creates official evidence of what happened. Do not delay reporting the attack. If the police need to be involved, report to them too. Quick reporting helps your case later.

Get Medical Treatment

After an attack, your health is most important. See a doctor even if injuries look small. Some injuries show up later, not straight away.

Ask the doctor for a written report of your injuries. This medical record is strong evidence for your claim. It also helps prove how serious the attack was.

Collect Evidence

Evidence makes your claim stronger. Write down what happened as soon as you can. Include time, place, and names of people involved. If there were witnesses, ask for their details. Keep copies of any CCTV footage if available. Save any photos of your injuries. The more evidence you have, the better.

Know Your Employer’s Duty

Employers must protect staff from harm. They should provide a safe workplace. If your employer failed in this duty, you can claim against them. For example, if safety rules were ignored, they may be at fault. Knowing this helps you understand your rights.

When Police Should Be Involved

If the attack was violent, report it to the police. Attacks at work may count as assault. Police can investigate and take legal action. Their report also strengthens your compensation claim. Always keep a copy of the crime reference number.

Types of Compensation You May Claim

You may claim for several types of loss. These include:

●     Pain and suffering caused by the attack

●     Loss of earnings if you could not work

●     Medical treatment and recovery costs

●     Travel costs for hospital or doctor visits

●     Emotional distress or trauma

Each case is different. The amount depends on your injuries and losses.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)

If the attacker is not linked to your employer, you may claim through CICA. CICA is a government scheme for victims of violent crime. You can apply if you were injured in a work attack. Claims must usually be made within two years. CICA pays compensation even if the attacker is unknown.

Employer Liability Claims

If your employer failed to protect you, you may claim against them. This is called an employer liability claim. For example, if no security measures were in place, your employer may be responsible. These claims are handled through your employer’s insurance. You are protected by law from being punished for claiming.

Time Limits for Claims

In most cases, you have three years to claim. The three years start from the date of the attack. If you claim through CICA, the limit is usually two years. It is best to start the claim early. Starting early helps gather strong evidence.

What a Solicitor Can Do

A solicitor can guide you through the claim. They will collect evidence and contact witnesses. They can value your claim and deal with insurers.

Most solicitors offer “No Win, No Fee” service. This means you pay nothing if you lose the claim. A solicitor helps reduce stress during the process.

Can You Lose Your Job for Claiming?

Some workers worry about losing their job after claiming. The law protects you from unfair treatment. Employers can't legally dismiss you for making a claim. If they do, you may have a further reason to claim unfair dismissal. You feel safer because you know this.

Support After an Attack

Being attacked in the workplace can be harmful to your mental well-being. You might feel anxious, stressed, or frightened. You should get emotional support.

Counseling and therapy can aid your recovery. Some employers offer employee support programmes. You can also ask your GP for mental health help.

Steps to Start Your Claim

Here are the main steps:

1. Report the attack immediately.
2. Get medical treatment and records.
3. Collect all possible evidence.
4. Speak to a solicitor for advice.
5. Start your claim within the time limit.

Following these steps gives you the best chance of success.

Conclusion

An attack at work can leave you shaken and hurt. But you have legal rights and protections. Reporting the attack, getting medical help, and collecting evidence are important.

You may claim through your employer or through CICA. There is a solicitor who can assist you and protect your rights. Don't forget, the law is on your side. If you were attacked in the workplace, you don't have to face it alone.