Teachers have a difficult job. They’re exposed to hazards every day, including disgruntled students and parents in some instances.
In this case, a teacher’s workers’ compensation claim was denied in Illinois, even though he was attacked by an intruder in his classroom. The reason for the denial was that the incident “didn’t happen in the course of his work,” but he and students claim that he was in the classroom at the time and had to step between the intruder and five students to protect them.
He has criticized police, who took over 40 minutes to respond once he reported that he’d been attacked on school grounds. The Chicago State University teacher plans to appeal the denial of the workers’ compensation claim because he says that he suffered back, neck and emotional injuries as a result of the attack. His attorney is helping him appeal, is seeking to have his care paid for and is working for him to receive coverage as he recovers.
In cases like this, it’s easy to see how someone’s workplace injury could be denied. It’s an unusual case, but with the right supporting evidence, there should be no question that the person was hurt while working. In this situation, a teacher was in his classroom protecting students from an intruder who appeared intoxicated. It seems fair that anyone protecting others during their time on the job should receive compensation if they’re hurt.
If you’re hurt on the job, you’re not alone. Your attorney can discuss your options for compensation with you and what to do if your claim is denied.