I was injured at a company sponsored sporting event. Will I possibly get workers comp for this injury?

Question: I recently attended a work sponsored picnic, and broke my ankle while playing softball game that was hosted by my company. I ended up going to the ER and my Insurance coverage only covered a portion of the injuries. I am left out of work for some time and not sure how my company is going to handle this. Am I entitled to workers compensation or any recovery of the medical expenses that the insurance came short of covering?

Response: Workers compensation is intended to compensate the employee for injuries sustained while in the course and scope of employment, even if they are not in the workplace at the time of the injury, i.e. if they are traveling for business, performing a work-related errand, or even attending a required, business-related social function. So if you were required to attend your company picnic, the answer is yes, your injury may be covered by workers compensation. I would advise seeking the advice of an attorney experienced in workers compensation law.

Answered by Jan Hill

Additional resources:

• Workers Comp – DOL.gov
• California Dept. of Industrial Relations

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