Work events can be a fun way to connect with coworkers, but accidents sometimes happen. If you’re injured at a company party or off-site gathering, you might wonder whether you qualify for workers’ compensation in California.
Understanding when workers’ comp applies
In California, workers’ compensation covers injuries that occur in the course of employment. This usually means during work hours or on the job site. But if your employer sponsors the event and encourages attendance, it might count as work-related. For example, a holiday party hosted by your company could qualify if it was clearly organized by management.
Factors that influence coverage
Several details affect whether your injury counts as work-related. If the employer required or strongly encouraged you to attend, workers’ comp is more likely to apply. If they paid for the venue, food, or entertainment, that also strengthens your claim. But if the event was optional, off-the-clock, or mostly social, the case becomes less clear.
Where the accident happened and who hosted it also matters. If the party took place at the office or during business hours, it might be easier to argue that the event was part of your job. On the other hand, a casual get-together at a coworker’s house on a weekend might not qualify.
Examples of covered and uncovered scenarios
If you trip and fall at a company-funded retreat while team-building, that’s likely covered. But if you drink too much at a casual happy hour with no employer involvement and get hurt, that probably isn’t. Each situation depends on how closely the event ties to your work duties.
Understanding your rights can help you avoid paying for injuries that happened because of your job. If the accident connects clearly to your work and the employer’s involvement, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.