GITNUX REPORT 2024

Workplace Harassment: Average Settlement for Lawsuit Revealed in Statistics

Explore the data: typical payouts, unreported incidents, and industry trends in workplace harassment lawsuits.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

Statistic 1

Women file 83% of sexual harassment charges

Statistic 2

About 38% of women and 14% of men have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace

Statistic 3

Approximately 58% of LGBT workers have heard derogatory comments about sexual orientation or gender identity

Statistic 4

About 60% of women who experience harassment say it's from a co-worker

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About 20% of LGBTQ Americans have experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity when applying for jobs

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Approximately 40% of women and 14% of men have experienced harassment in the workplace

Statistic 7

About 35% of LGBT employees feel they have to hide their personal lives at work

Statistic 8

About 60% of women report experiencing unwanted sexual attention in their careers

Statistic 9

About 50% of LGBTQ employees remain closeted at work

Statistic 10

About 30% of women in male-dominated industries report experiencing sexual harassment

Statistic 11

About 45% of LGBTQ employees have experienced verbal harassment at work

Statistic 12

About 55% of women in academia report experiencing sexual harassment

Statistic 13

The hospitality industry accounts for 14% of all sexual harassment charges filed

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The retail industry accounts for 13% of all sexual harassment charges filed

Statistic 15

The manufacturing industry accounts for 11% of all sexual harassment charges filed

Statistic 16

About 55% of women in tech report experiencing harassment in the workplace

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The healthcare industry accounts for 11% of all sexual harassment charges filed

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The education industry accounts for 6% of all sexual harassment charges filed

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The finance and insurance industry accounts for 5% of all sexual harassment charges filed

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The public administration industry accounts for 4% of all sexual harassment charges filed

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The transportation industry accounts for 3% of all sexual harassment charges filed

Statistic 22

The information industry accounts for 2% of all sexual harassment charges filed

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The construction industry accounts for 1.5% of all sexual harassment charges filed

Statistic 24

The agriculture industry accounts for 0.5% of all sexual harassment charges filed

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The mining industry accounts for 0.3% of all sexual harassment charges filed

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The utilities industry accounts for 0.2% of all sexual harassment charges filed

Statistic 27

Approximately 90% of harassment cases are settled out of court

Statistic 28

The median length of time for EEOC to investigate and resolve a harassment charge is 295 days

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Approximately 51% of harassment claims are found to have no reasonable cause

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Approximately 30% of harassment cases are settled within 6 months of filing

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Approximately 20% of harassment cases are resolved through mediation

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Approximately 15% of harassment cases go to trial

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About 87% of American adults believe that sexual harassment in the workplace is a problem

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About 75% of workplace harassment incidents go unreported

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The EEOC received 26,221 harassment charges in fiscal year 2019

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Approximately 70% of harassment victims do not report the incident due to fear of retaliation

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Approximately 90% of employees who experience harassment do not file a formal complaint

Statistic 38

The average settlement for workplace harassment cases is approximately $50,000

Statistic 39

Sexual harassment cases have a higher average settlement of $75,000 to $125,000

Statistic 40

Racial harassment settlements average around $55,000

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Age-based harassment settlements average around $40,000

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The average cost to a company per sexual harassment case is $125,000

Statistic 43

The average settlement for disability-based harassment is around $45,000

Statistic 44

The average settlement for religious harassment cases is around $40,000

Statistic 45

The average settlement for national origin harassment is around $50,000

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The average settlement for color-based harassment is around $45,000

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The average settlement for genetic information harassment is around $35,000

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The average settlement for pregnancy-based harassment is around $45,000

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The average settlement for equal pay act violations is around $30,000

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The average settlement for retaliation claims related to harassment is around $50,000

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The average settlement for harassment cases involving multiple protected characteristics is around $65,000

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The average settlement for harassment cases involving a hostile work environment is around $55,000

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The average settlement for harassment cases involving quid pro quo situations is around $70,000

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About 60% of employees who file a harassment claim face retaliation

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Approximately 75% of harassment victims experience retaliation when they speak up

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About 90% of companies have anti-harassment policies in place

Statistic 57

Approximately 75% of workplace harassment victims experienced retaliation when they spoke up

Statistic 58

About 80% of companies provide sexual harassment training to their employees

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Approximately 65% of companies have updated their harassment policies in the wake of the #MeToo movement

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About 25% of harassment victims report experiencing anxiety or depression as a result

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Approximately 55% of harassment victims report experiencing emotional distress

Statistic 62

Approximately 40% of harassment victims report experiencing decreased productivity at work

Statistic 63

Approximately 25% of harassment victims report considering leaving their job due to the harassment

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Summary

  • The average settlement for workplace harassment cases is approximately $50,000
  • About 75% of workplace harassment incidents go unreported
  • Sexual harassment cases have a higher average settlement of $75,000 to $125,000
  • Approximately 90% of harassment cases are settled out of court
  • The EEOC received 26,221 harassment charges in fiscal year 2019
  • Racial harassment settlements average around $55,000
  • About 60% of employees who file a harassment claim face retaliation
  • The median length of time for EEOC to investigate and resolve a harassment charge is 295 days
  • Approximately 51% of harassment claims are found to have no reasonable cause
  • Women file 83% of sexual harassment charges
  • Age-based harassment settlements average around $40,000
  • About 38% of women and 14% of men have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace
  • The hospitality industry accounts for 14% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • Approximately 75% of harassment victims experience retaliation when they speak up
  • The average cost to a company per sexual harassment case is $125,000

Buckle up, folks, because were about to dive into the wild world of workplace harassment lawsuits! Did you know that the average settlement for these cases hovers around $50,000? Thats enough to make you sit up and take notice. With about 75% of incidents going unreported, sexual harassment cases are no joke, commanding settlements between $75,000 and $125,000. And heres a juicy tidbit for you: approximately 90% of these cases are settled out of court. So grab your popcorn and get ready to uncover the shocking truths and jaw-dropping statistics behind one of the workplaces most troubling issues.

Demographics

  • Women file 83% of sexual harassment charges
  • About 38% of women and 14% of men have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace
  • Approximately 58% of LGBT workers have heard derogatory comments about sexual orientation or gender identity
  • About 60% of women who experience harassment say it's from a co-worker
  • About 20% of LGBTQ Americans have experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity when applying for jobs
  • Approximately 40% of women and 14% of men have experienced harassment in the workplace
  • About 35% of LGBT employees feel they have to hide their personal lives at work
  • About 60% of women report experiencing unwanted sexual attention in their careers
  • About 50% of LGBTQ employees remain closeted at work
  • About 30% of women in male-dominated industries report experiencing sexual harassment
  • About 45% of LGBTQ employees have experienced verbal harassment at work
  • About 55% of women in academia report experiencing sexual harassment

Interpretation

In a world where statistics tell the story, it's clear that harassment knows no boundaries and affects individuals across all demographics. Women are leading the charge, filing 83% of sexual harassment charges, while 38% of women and 14% of men have endured harassment in the workplace. LGBT workers face derogatory comments and discrimination, with 58% hearing derogatory remarks and 20% facing discrimination in job applications. From unwanted advances to verbal abuse, the numbers speak volumes about the need for a cultural shift. It's time for workplaces to address these issues head-on and create environments where everyone feels safe and respected, no matter their gender or sexual orientation.

Industry Trends

  • The hospitality industry accounts for 14% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The retail industry accounts for 13% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The manufacturing industry accounts for 11% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • About 55% of women in tech report experiencing harassment in the workplace
  • The healthcare industry accounts for 11% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The education industry accounts for 6% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The finance and insurance industry accounts for 5% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The public administration industry accounts for 4% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The transportation industry accounts for 3% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The information industry accounts for 2% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The construction industry accounts for 1.5% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The agriculture industry accounts for 0.5% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The mining industry accounts for 0.3% of all sexual harassment charges filed
  • The utilities industry accounts for 0.2% of all sexual harassment charges filed

Interpretation

As statistics unveil the intricate web of sexual harassment charges across industries, it seems that inappropriate behavior knows no bounds, permeating from the high-tech world all the way to the quiet pastures of agriculture. With the hospitality industry leading the charge in filed charges, one wonders if there's a "room for improvement" in their customer service training. However, with women in tech bearing the brunt of workplace harassment at an alarming rate, it's clear that the tech industry still has some debugging to do in its corporate culture. Whether you're brewing coffee, building cars, or saving lives, one thing is evident – no industry is immune to the scourge of harassment, and it's high time for a universal wake-up call to ensure safer working environments for all.

Legal Proceedings

  • Approximately 90% of harassment cases are settled out of court
  • The median length of time for EEOC to investigate and resolve a harassment charge is 295 days
  • Approximately 51% of harassment claims are found to have no reasonable cause
  • Approximately 30% of harassment cases are settled within 6 months of filing
  • Approximately 20% of harassment cases are resolved through mediation
  • Approximately 15% of harassment cases go to trial

Interpretation

In the tumultuous world of harassment lawsuits, statistics paint a revealing picture of the arduous journey from accusation to resolution. With a whopping 90% of cases finding solace in out-of-court settlements, it seems like legal battles often pivot on negotiations rather than courtroom drama. The formidable watchdog,EEOC, diligently takes about 295 days to sniff out the truth and bring closure - or at least, a bureaucratic semblance of it. While a significant 51% of claims are dismissed for lack of substantial grounds, those who press on find that perseverance may pay off, as 30% see a swifter resolution within 6 months of filing. The courtroom, akin to a gladiatorial arena, only witnesses about 15% of cases actually going to trial, while 20% find peace through the diplomatic art of mediation. In this high-stakes dance of legalities and human emotions, the numbers tell a tale of patience, strategy, and the elusive pursuit of justice.

Public Perception

  • About 87% of American adults believe that sexual harassment in the workplace is a problem

Interpretation

The statistics on the average settlement for harassment lawsuits may just be numbers on paper, but they speak volumes about the pervasive issue of sexual harassment in the workplace. With 87% of American adults recognizing this problem, it's clear that the tide is turning against workplace misconduct. These settlements aren't just about monetary compensation; they are a loud and clear message that harassers will be held accountable, and that victims will no longer suffer in silence. It's time to rewrite the narrative in the workplace, one settlement at a time.

Reporting Rates

  • About 75% of workplace harassment incidents go unreported
  • The EEOC received 26,221 harassment charges in fiscal year 2019
  • Approximately 70% of harassment victims do not report the incident due to fear of retaliation
  • Approximately 90% of employees who experience harassment do not file a formal complaint

Interpretation

These statistics paint a troubling picture of the pervasive culture of silence and fear that surrounds workplace harassment. It seems that speaking up against harassment carries the risk of being met with retaliation, discouraging many victims from seeking justice. The numbers speak volumes: the majority of incidents remain hidden, buried under a cloak of intimidation. It's clear that while the average settlement for a harassment lawsuit may provide some form of redress, the true cost of inaction is immeasurable in terms of the toll it takes on individuals and workplaces. As we strive for progress and accountability, it's imperative to dismantle these barriers that hinder reporting and ensure that the scales of justice weigh in favor of fairness and safety for all employees.

Settlement Amounts

  • The average settlement for workplace harassment cases is approximately $50,000
  • Sexual harassment cases have a higher average settlement of $75,000 to $125,000
  • Racial harassment settlements average around $55,000
  • Age-based harassment settlements average around $40,000
  • The average cost to a company per sexual harassment case is $125,000
  • The average settlement for disability-based harassment is around $45,000
  • The average settlement for religious harassment cases is around $40,000
  • The average settlement for national origin harassment is around $50,000
  • The average settlement for color-based harassment is around $45,000
  • The average settlement for genetic information harassment is around $35,000
  • The average settlement for pregnancy-based harassment is around $45,000
  • The average settlement for equal pay act violations is around $30,000
  • The average settlement for retaliation claims related to harassment is around $50,000
  • The average settlement for harassment cases involving multiple protected characteristics is around $65,000
  • The average settlement for harassment cases involving a hostile work environment is around $55,000
  • The average settlement for harassment cases involving quid pro quo situations is around $70,000

Interpretation

In the complex world of workplace harassment settlements, it seems that the price of improper behavior comes with a hefty price tag. It appears that bad behavior is like shopping at a high-end boutique, where each form of harassment has its own personalized price tag. From the designer label of sexual harassment cases with their $75,000 to $125,000 price tag, to the more budget-friendly equal pay act violations at $30,000, it's clear that bad behavior doesn't come cheap. So, for those thinking of engaging in workplace harassment, remember, it may cost you more than just your reputation – it might cost you a pretty penny too.

Workplace Impact

  • About 60% of employees who file a harassment claim face retaliation
  • Approximately 75% of harassment victims experience retaliation when they speak up
  • About 90% of companies have anti-harassment policies in place
  • Approximately 75% of workplace harassment victims experienced retaliation when they spoke up
  • About 80% of companies provide sexual harassment training to their employees
  • Approximately 65% of companies have updated their harassment policies in the wake of the #MeToo movement
  • About 25% of harassment victims report experiencing anxiety or depression as a result
  • Approximately 55% of harassment victims report experiencing emotional distress
  • Approximately 40% of harassment victims report experiencing decreased productivity at work
  • Approximately 25% of harassment victims report considering leaving their job due to the harassment

Interpretation

Despite the seemingly high percentages of employees facing retaliation and experiencing emotional distress after reporting harassment, it is somewhat reassuring to know that many companies have anti-harassment policies in place and provide training to their employees. However, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the pervasive issue of workplace harassment. The statistics also highlight the detrimental effects harassment can have on victims, with a significant portion reporting anxiety, depression, decreased productivity, and even considering leaving their job. It's evident that while progress has been made in awareness and policy implementation, there is still much work to be done to create truly safe and respectful work environments for all employees.

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