Attorney Says Chimp Case Should be Treated Like a Workers' Comp Claim An attorney representing the owner of a chimpanzee that mauled and blinded a Connecticut woman in February claims the attack is a work-related incident and said her family's case should be handled like a workers' compensation claim, according to The Associated Press. If the case is viewed as a workers' comp claim, compensation would be severely limited and shield the chimp's owner from personal liability. The chimp attacked the victim, a friend and employee of its owner, ripping off the woman's hands, nose, lips and eyelids. The victim remains in stable condition at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. The victim's family filed a $50 million lawsuit against the chimp's owner, claiming she was negligent and reckless for not having the ability to control "a wild animal with violent propensities." According to the chimp owner's attorney, the victim was working as an employee of his client's tow truck company at the time of the attack. He claims the chimp was an important part of the business, stating his image was on the wrecker, he appeared at the garage daily and he was present for numerous promotional events. The residence where the attack took place is a business office of the company, according to the attorney, who states that the workplace should be subject to the provisions of the Connecticut workers' comp statutes. (workersxzcompxzkit) Under Connecticut workers' comp regulations, the victim would have her medical bills paid for by the employer's insurance and would obtain partial wage replacement, but would be denied any money for pain and suffering that comprises a large portion of jury awards in civil cases.
Author Robert Elliott, executive vice president, Amaxx Risks Solutions, Inc. has worked successfully for 20 years with many industries to reduce Workers' Compensation costs, including airlines, health care, manufacturing, printing/publishing, pharmaceuticals, retail, hospitality and manufacturing. He can be contacted at: [email protected] or 860-786-8286.
Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws vary. You should consult with your insurance broker or agent about workman's comp issues.
