What is the Fellow Servant Rule in the context of workplace compensation?

The Fellow Servant Rule refers to a legal doctrine in workplace compensation that aims to limit an employer's liability for injuries sustained by an employee when those injuries are caused by the actions or negligence of a coworker. In scenarios where one employee's injury was directly impacted by the behavior of another employee, this rule suggests that the employer may not be held responsible for the injury, as it is considered a risk inherent to the work environment.

This principle has its roots in common law and has historically been used as a defense by employers against claims for workplace injuries, asserting that the injury occurred due to the actions of a fellow employee rather than due to the employer's own negligence. In this context, recognizing the role of coworkers in workplace injuries is essential for understanding employer liability and workers' compensation laws.