Which injuries are typically covered by worker's compensation?

Worker's compensation is designed to cover medical expenses and lost wages for employees who are injured while performing their job duties, thus providing protection for both the employee and employer. Injuries that occur within the scope of job duties refer to any incidents that happen while an employee is engaged in tasks related to their employment responsibilities. This includes physical injuries from accidents, occupational illnesses, or repetitive motion injuries that arise during work activities.

The eligibility for compensation hinges on the connection of the injury to the work context. For instance, if an employee injures themselves while driving to a meeting as part of their job, that injury would typically be covered. Conversely, injuries incurred outside the work environment or during personal activities do not qualify for coverage, as worker's compensation programs focus strictly on job-related injuries. This framework is important to understand when considering the obligations and protections under worker’s compensation laws.