Protecting Victims Of Assaults At Work In Iowa

Last updated on February 12, 2025

Every workplace should be a violence-free environment. Unfortunately, assaults at work are far from unheard of in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), from 2021 to 2022, over 57,000 incidents of workplace violence occurred that led to missed work, job transfers or restrictions. When you face a workplace assault, it’s not just the physical injuries that are devastating. It’s also the uncertainty of whether you’ll ever be healthy enough or feel safe enough to return to work. Our experienced Iowa attorneys at Wertz Law Firm, P.C., understand the impacts of these incidents and are here to pursue workers’ compensation benefits to help you with the recovery process.

From our Cedar Rapids office, we stand up for workplace violence victims statewide. Our commitment to compassionate support and personal care sets us apart. Discover the difference our committed advocacy can make. Get a workers’ compensation consultation by calling 319-774-2687 or completing our contact form.

Are Employers Financially Responsible For Assaults At Work?

In most cases, yes. Here in Iowa, workers’ compensation does generally cover injuries from violence a worker suffered in connection with their job. So, workplace assault victims typically are entitled to receive monetary relief from their employer (through its insurer) in the form of workers’ comp benefits. We can help you with making a workers’ compensation claim in relation to assault injuries.

Where Does Workplace Violence Occur?

Workplace violence can happen anywhere. Common locations include:

• Schools
• School buses
• Hospitals
• Buses and taxis
• Retail stores
• Offices
• Factories
• Bars
• Restaurants

According to the BLS, the health care and social assistance field saw the highest incident rate of workplace violence in the U.S. over the 2021 to 2022 period.

No matter the industry they come from, we are here for victims across Iowa.

How Common Is Workplace Violence In Iowa?

In 2021 and 2022, Iowa saw a slightly lower rate of nonfatal workplace violence incidents resulting in transfers, restrictions or missed work than the national average. Specifically, according to the BLS, there were 2.3 such incidents per 10,000 full-time workers in Iowa versus 2.9 per 10,000 nationally. However, this doesn’t mean that workplace violence is not an issue in Iowa. There are still many people in the state who are affected by it.

Understanding And Preventing Workplace Violence

Workplace violence is not as rare as one would hope. Given this, it is very important for employers to implement policies to protect workers. Workplace safety measures that could help include:

• Having and enforcing zero tolerance policies on workplace violence
• Providing prevention and response training to employees
• Putting appropriate security systems in place
• Having secure entry points
• Having a clear emergency response plan

Workers throughout the state deserve a work environment that prioritizes their safety.

What Can Workers Do To Try To Stay Safe?

The sad reality is that you can’t always count on your workplace being free of violence. In the face of this, you can take steps to protect yourself, including:

• Remain aware of your surroundings
• Watch for suspicious behaviors
• Report suspicious activity to your supervisor or workplace security
• Stay informed of your employer’s emergency procedures
• Know your workplace’s evacuation/escape routes

It is also important to know what to do if you become a victim of workplace assault.

What Should You Do After A Workplace Violence Incident?

Important steps include:

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Report the incident to your employer
• Document details of the incident
• Contact a workers’ compensation attorney to discuss your rights
• Start the process of filing a workers’ compensation claim for any injuries that occurred

What happens after such an incident can have a big impact on your future. Let us guide you forward.

Common Injuries From Workplace Violence

Assaults at work can expose employees to a wide variety of injuries, including:

• Bruises and contusions
• Fractures
• Head injuries
• Lacerations
• Depression and emotional stress

Workers’ compensation can help cover medical expenses related to such injuries. Our team is here to explore all avenues to ensure you get the care you need.

What If You Miss Time From Work?

Missing work due to workplace violence is not uncommon. According to the BLS, there were over 41,000 workplace violence incidents from 2021 to 2022 that resulted in at least a day missed. Workers’ compensation can provide benefits to help with both short-term missed time or longer absences from the workforce. Our workers’ compensation lawyers can help you understand what remedies may be available to you on this front.

Get Caring, Dependable Support

Put trusted advocates in your corner when you have faced a workplace assault. Our workers’ compensation attorneys care deeply about the health and safety of Iowa workers. Learn more about how we can help you. Contact us by phone at 319-774-2687 or send us a message online for a free, confidential consultation.