If you get hurt at work, one of the first things you might wonder is, “Was this my fault?” Maybe you slipped because you weren’t paying attention, or you misused a piece of equipment and got injured. It’s easy to assume that if the accident was your fault, you won’t qualify for workers’ compensation. But here’s the truth—workers’ comp is a no-fault system. That means you can still get benefits even if the accident was your mistake.
Of course, there are some exceptions. If you were doing something seriously wrong—like messing around, being reckless, or working under the influence—you might not be covered. But in most cases, even if you made a mistake, you’re still entitled to benefits. Let’s break it down so you know exactly where you stand.
How Workers’ Compensation Actually Works
Workers’ comp is a type of insurance that almost all employers are required to have. It covers employees who get hurt on the job, no matter how the injury happens. That’s because it’s designed to protect workers AND employers. Instead of suing your boss for an injury, you get benefits through workers’ comp. In return, your employer doesn’t have to worry about lawsuits every time someone gets hurt.
The key thing to remember is that workers’ comp is a no-fault system. That means you don’t have to prove that your employer did something wrong to cause your injury. And, on the flip side, it doesn’t matter if you made a mistake that led to the accident. As long as you were doing your job when you got hurt, you should be covered.
When Being at Fault Doesn’t Matter
Most work injuries fall into a simple category—accidents. If you were performing your regular job duties and made an error that led to an injury, you can still receive workers’ comp benefits. Here are some examples:
- You trip over a box you left in your own workspace and break your wrist.
- You forget to put on safety gloves and cut yourself while handling machinery.
- You misstep on the stairs while carrying supplies and sprain your ankle.
Even though these accidents are technically your fault, they’re still considered work-related injuries, which means you qualify for benefits.
Workers’ comp covers medical bills, lost wages if you need time off, and other related expenses. If your injury prevents you from returning to work for a long time, you may also qualify for additional benefits.
If you’re unsure about whether your injury qualifies, speaking with a workers compensation lawyer can help clear things up. They can explain your rights and make sure your claim is handled properly.
Situations Where Workers’ Comp Might Not Cover You
While most work-related injuries qualify for benefits, there are some situations where you could be denied. Here are a few:
1. You Were Under the Influence
If you were drinking alcohol or using drugs at work and that played a role in your injury, your claim will probably be denied. Employers usually require drug testing after a workplace accident, and if you fail, you likely won’t get benefits.
2. You Were Breaking Workplace Rules
If you were violating safety rules, ignoring procedures, or doing something you knew was dangerous, your employer’s insurance company might try to deny your claim. This doesn’t mean every mistake gets you disqualified, but serious violations—like removing safety guards from machines or skipping required protective gear—can hurt your chances.
3. You Got Hurt While Goofing Off
Workers’ comp covers injuries that happen while you’re doing your job. If you were joking around, wrestling with a coworker, or doing something obviously unsafe, your claim could be denied.
4. You Started a Fight
If you got injured because of a fight you started, workers’ comp won’t cover you. However, if you were attacked by a coworker and got hurt, you could still qualify.
What If Your Claim Gets Denied?
If your employer’s insurance company denies your claim, don’t panic. Workers’ comp denials aren’t uncommon, and they don’t always mean you’re out of luck. Insurance companies look for reasons to deny claims, but that doesn’t mean their decision is final. You have the right to appeal.
Here’s what you can do if your claim is denied:
1. Find out the reason. Your denial letter should explain why your claim wasn’t approved.
2. Gather evidence. This could include medical records, witness statements, or anything that proves your injury happened at work.
3. Get legal help. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you fight the denial and improve your chances of getting benefits.
Don’t Let a Mistake Stop You From Getting Benefits
Getting injured on the job is stressful enough without worrying about whether a simple mistake will cost you your benefits. In most cases, workers’ comp will still cover you, even if the accident was your fault. As long as you were doing your job and not breaking major rules, you should qualify for medical care and wage replacement.
If your claim gets denied or you’re not sure what to do next, talking to a lawyer can make a big difference. They can help you understand your rights and make sure you get the benefits you deserve. Injuries happen—but that doesn’t mean you should have to struggle alone.
