Can You File for Workers’ Compensation for Psychological Injuries After Robberies?

According to various statistics, armed criminals pose serious threats to retail workers in Florida. Many of these workers lose their lives during robberies, while others have suffered serious injuries. If you have experienced one of these incidents firsthand, you probably know that they can cause both physical and psychological injuries. Can you file a workers’ compensation claim to help cover your medical costs? Are psychological injuries even covered under workers’ compensation in Tampa?

Little Caesars Workers Threatened by Armed Gunman 

Unfortunately, retail workers face armed criminals all the time. In August of 2024, it was reported that an armed robbery suspect had threatened two Little Caesars employees in Tampa. Immediately after the suspect drew his weapon, the two employees ran into the back room – leaving the criminal alone at the front of the store. Although the suspect attempted to open a safe, he quickly fled without taking anything.

This situation could have been much worse for everyone involved. Various statistics show that numerous retail workers have lost their lives due to armed robbers throughout Florida. Some people call this an “epidemic of retail crime,” with retail workers facing the most dangerous situations imaginable on a daily basis.

Can You Get Workers’ Compensation for Psychological Injuries in Florida? 

An armed robbery can lead to serious psychological pressures for retail workers. Those who survive may struggle with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and various other mental health issues. The question is whether you can claim compensation for these issues. Can workers’ compensation cover things like medication or psychologist appointments?

The general rule is simple: If you want to recover workers’ compensation for a psychological issue, you must link these issues to physical injuries. In other words, psychological issues alone cannot form the basis of a workers’ comp claim.

For example, you might have been merely threatened with a firearm during an attempted robbery at your workplace. In this situation, you would struggle to recover workers’ compensation because you did not suffer any physical injuries.

However, you could potentially make a “mental stress claim” if the robber pistol-whipped or shot you during the altercation. In this situation, you might develop anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other legitimate disorders as you heal from your physical injuries. Speak with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer today to learn more about your options.

Find an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Tampa 

If you have been searching for an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Tampa, look no further than The Franco Law Firm. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured workers in Florida – including those struggling with psychological injuries. Although there are notable requirements when claiming compensation for psychological injuries in Florida, this may be possible under certain circumstances. Reach out today to get started with an action plan.

Sources: 

msn.com/en-us/news/crime/suspect-threatened-little-caesars-workers-in-tampa-with-gun-watch/ar-AA1oppEz?ocid=BingNewsVerp

cnn.com/2023/05/31/business/dollar-general-worker-safety/index.html