Workplace violence is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences. When an employee loses their life due to violence in the workplace, families may have legal options to seek justice. A lawyer, like a wrongful death lawyer, knows that a wrongful death claim can hold employers or other responsible parties accountable. This type of claim provides financial support for surviving family members while addressing unsafe working conditions that contributed to the tragedy.
When Employers May Be Liable
Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe work environment. If workplace violence occurs due to inadequate security, ignored threats, or a failure to address known risks, an employer may be liable. Examples of employer negligence in workplace violence cases include:
- Failing to act on reports of threats or harassment
- Not providing proper security measures in high-risk environments
- Allowing dangerous individuals to remain employed despite warning signs
- Ignoring workplace conflicts that escalate into violence
While some workplace violence incidents involve unpredictable situations, many cases stem from warning signs that were not addressed. Employers who overlook these risks may be held responsible in a wrongful death claim. You may have evidence from your loved one’s medical visits, whether from a doctor’s office or a wellness center when it comes to their past injuries.
Third-Party Liability In Workplace Violence Cases
In some cases, parties other than the employer may share liability. If workplace violence is caused by a customer, vendor, or another third party, the business may still be accountable if proper precautions were not taken. Security companies, property owners, or even manufacturers of security equipment may also be held responsible if their actions—or lack of action—contributed to the incident.
For example, if a business hired a security firm that failed to respond appropriately to a known threat, that firm could be named in a wrongful death lawsuit. Similarly, if a property owner failed to maintain adequate lighting or access control, their negligence could be a contributing factor.
Compensation For Families After A Workplace Violence Death
A wrongful death claim can provide financial relief for surviving family members. Compensation may cover:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical expenses related to the incident
- Lost income and benefits the deceased would have provided
- Pain and suffering experienced by the family
- Loss of companionship and support
While no amount of compensation can replace a loved one, financial recovery can help families manage expenses and hold responsible parties accountable.
Holding Employers And Other Parties Accountable
Workplace violence should never be dismissed as an unavoidable risk. Employers have a duty to protect their workers, and when negligence leads to a preventable death, families have the right to seek justice. By filing a wrongful death claim, survivors can bring attention to unsafe workplace conditions and help prevent similar tragedies in the future. Attorneys like those at Wandres Law, PC can attest to the importance of acting quickly in wrongful death cases. Legal deadlines apply, and evidence may become harder to collect over time. Seeking legal guidance early can help families understand their options.