Zoo Worker Receives Workers' Compensation after Being Mauled by Bear
St. Louis news channel KMOV reported recently that a Montana zoo employee who was mauled by a bear is eligible for workers' compensation benefits, even though the employee was under the influence of marijuana at the time of the animal attack.
The employee admitted that he smoked marijuana before arriving at Great Bear Adventures on the day of the accident. While at work, he attempted to feed one of the bears, which was part of his job duties. The bear attacked him, causing injuries that required the employee to be hospitalized.
Great Bear Adventures tried to argue that the employee was not entitled to workers' compensation benefits because he was a volunteer and also because the marijuana use had caused his accident. However, Workers' Compensation Court judge James Jeremiah Shea ruled that the employee's marijuana use was not the cause of the bear's attack, and that therefore the employee is entitled to workers' compensation benefits. The judge also found that the employee was on the payroll of Great Bear Adventures and therefore covered by the employer's workers' compensation obligations.
In Missouri, workers who are injured while performing their job duties are entitled to MO workers' compensation benefits. These benefits may cover doctor and hospital expenses, medications, therapy, and necessary medical equipment. They may also cover lost wages and/or provide payment for permanent disabilities.
Navigating workers' compensation can be difficult and confusing, particularly after an accident on the job. The experienced Missouri workers' compensation attorneys at Page Law can help you receive the workers' compensation benefits to which you're entitled. If you or a loved one has suffered a work-related injury, please don't hesitate to call Page Law at (314) 322-8515 for a free and confidential consultation.
