Most employees are covered by workers' compensation because their employers are required to pay for insurance. However, in some states, only employers with a certain amount of employees must have workers' comp insurance. Also, most injuries that happen at work or because of work are covered under workers' comp, regardless of who was at fault. Work-related injuries can either be one-time events or illnesses that developed over time, such as repetitive stress injuries.
Some injuries that happen at work may or may not be covered by workers' compensation; these include injuries due to drug or alcohol use, injuries caused by fighting or self-infliction, injuries that happen while committing a crime, and psychiatric injuries.
Can I Get Workers' Comp Benefits for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?
You should expect an uphill battle when filing for workers' comp based on PTSD, but first responders may have an easier time getting benefits in some states.
Are You Eligible for Workers' Compensation Benefits?
Injured on the job? Learn who is—and isn't—covered under workers' comp.
Workers' Compensation: Is Your Injury or Illness Work Related?
Learn about the rules for deciding whether employees’ injuries or illnesses are related to their jobs and covered by workers’ comp.
Injuries and Illnesses Covered by Workers' Compensation
You may be able to receive workers’ comp benefits for a range of medical conditions including repetitive strain, cumulative trauma, occupational illness, and problems caused by job stress.
Death Benefits in Workers' Compensation
Learn about the requirements and limits on workers’ comp death benefits after your spouse, parent, or other family member died from work injuries.
Are my injuries covered by workers’ comp if they happened at a company retreat?
Will workers’ comp cover my injury?
Let Nolo help you manage your California workers' compensation claim, from start to finish.