General Claims Handling – California Workers Compensation, Self Insurance Practice Test

In California Workers' Compensation, injuries that are the result of willful misconduct or that occur while the employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol are explicitly excluded from coverage. This is based on the principle that individuals should be accountable for their actions, particularly in cases where their intentional disregard for safety undermines the fundamental goal of the Workers' Compensation system, which is to provide support and benefits for workers who are injured while performing their job duties.

When an employee engages in willful misconduct, such as fighting, violating safety rules, or intentionally harming themselves or others, the employer is not responsible for compensating for any injuries that result from such behavior. Similarly, if an injury occurs as a result of the employee being intoxicated, it is viewed as the employee's responsibility, thus eliminating the employer's liability in that situation.

Injuries occurring during work hours typically fall under the coverage of Workers' Compensation, as do injuries caused by negligent acts of co-workers, provided they occur in the course of employment. Commuting injuries are usually not covered, but that is separate from the reasons outlined for excluding injuries resulting from willful misconduct or intoxication.