By Vincent J. Quatrini, Esq.
In Giant Eagle, Inc. v. Baker, Ms. Baker was injured when she was struck by a car in front of the Giant Eagle where she worked during her mandatory 15-minute break. Giant Eagle argued that Ms. Baker was not in the scope of her employment at that time and therefore was not eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits.
However, the Commonwealth Court rejected Giant Eagle’s argument. The Court determined that Ms. Baker was on Giant Eagle’s property, as she was taking her customary route from the store.
Equally significant, The Court applied the “personal comfort doctrine”. Under the personal comfort doctrine, normal breaks for personal care needs (eating, drinking, using the restroom, getting warm or cooling off) do not disqualify a worker from Workers’ Compensation benefits.
Bottom line: The Commonwealth Court expanded the personal comfort doctrine to cover Ms. Baker, determined she was still within the scope of her employment, granted her claim for work loss benefits.
This significant ruling sets a precent that we can use for our clients who are injured during a work break. If you are hurt at work, whether on the job or on a mandatory break, contact us at 888-532-6016 or online for a free evaluation of your case.
