Most accidents that happen while working or with the employer’s express authorization outside of the job are covered by workers’ compensation insurance. Injury-related workplace situations must ultimately be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. However, there are some circumstances in which claims from injured employees would not be covered. These, for instance, include:
- Traveling to and from work: If an employee has an injury while traveling to or from work, this is not regarded as an injury sustained in the course of employment and is not covered unless the employee has consent.
- Intoxication/intentional act: In most cases, if an employee sustains injuries as a direct result of being drunk and under the influence of an illicit substance, the damage is not covered.
- Horseplay: In general, workplace horseplay does not advance the business, so any consequent injuries are not covered. In the event that a worker is hurt but wasn’t actively involved in the play, there is an exception to that law.
- Intentional acts: A worker is not covered by a workers’ compensation insurance policy if they actively cause workplace injuries or illnesses.
- Illegal activities: A company’s workers’ compensation insurance policy does not provide coverage for employee injuries brought on by illegal acts at the workplace.
- Policy Violations: Workers’ compensation does not compensate employees who are hurt while breaking corporate rules, regulations, or protocol.
- Terminated employees: Employees who have been fired or laid off are no longer protected by workers’ compensation insurance, unless the accident happened before the employee was fired.
If you were injured at work, call our office at 617-444-7777 for a free consultation, no obligation. Additionally, we’ll give you access to a handful of free knowledge that can help you make the right decision about your case.