What is defined as a "compensable injury"?

A "compensable injury" is defined as an injury that arises out of and in the course of employment. This definition is foundational in workers' compensation law, as it establishes the criteria necessary for an employee to qualify for benefits. The key elements are that the injury must be directly related to the work environment and the activities the employee was engaged in during their employment.

For an injury to be compensable, it should occur while the employee is performing their job duties or engaged in activities that benefit the employer, such as attending a work-related event or completing tasks assigned by the employer. This connection between the injury and the employment context is what allows workers to claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs associated with their injury.

In contrast, injuries occurring during personal activities, such as sports or leisure, and those that are self-inflicted do not meet the criteria for compensation under most workers’ compensation laws. Such injuries typically lack the necessary connection to the employment context, which is essential for establishing compensability.