Office Holiday Party Injuries
December 4, 2017
With the holiday season in full swing, many employers throw holiday parties to build employee morale, show appreciation for a job well done, and enjoy each other’s company in a more relaxed setting. In some cases, however, a holiday party can get out of control, particularly when alcohol is being served. If an employee is injured at an office holiday party, he or she may be entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation claim can be an overwhelming and complex process – especially when the victim is injured at a holiday party. In Maryland, a holiday party is considered part of a person’s employment. For a claim to be approved, the following factors must apply:
- The holiday party is considered part of the employee’s contract
- The employer hosted the party on company property, even if the space is not safe for large groups of people
- The employer made it mandatory to attend the party
- The employer benefited from the party in some way, including improved relationships with customers or clients
Opposing Factors
The following factors can work against a worker trying to prove that the holiday party was an official work-related event:
- The holiday party did not take place on company property, or during office hours
- Friends and family of the employees were welcome to attend the party
- The party notification specifically stated that attendance at the party is not a requirement
- The employer did not imply that skipping the party would have negative consequences on the employee’s job or reputation
- There were no work-related activities conducted during the holiday party
If the injury is determined to be work-related, it is in the victim’s best interest to file a Workers’ Compensation claim. If approved, the victim will be reimbursed for all medical expenses related to the incident, including hospital bills, prescription medication, physical therapy, and surgical procedures. Reimbursement for any lost wages will also take place.
If the victim is unable to return to work for a certain period of time due to the injury, they will receive benefits – a percentage of their weekly salary. If the injury was fatal, the surviving dependents will receive death benefits. An experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer can walk victims through every step of the claims process.
Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Protect the Rights of All Injured Workers
If you have been injured at a work-related holiday party, contact a Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyer at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. Our experienced team will address all of your concerns and walk you through every step of the claims and appeals process. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
