Will workers’ compensation cover my injury at a holiday party?

Whether workers’ compensation covers your injury at a holiday party depends on the circumstances. You can recover compensation for your injury if you can show the purpose of the party was more than a social gathering.

Several factors will determine if compensation can be awarded. Who hosted the even? Did your employer host or sponsor it? Was attendance mandatory? Did you have a reasonable basis for believing you must attend. For example, your boss may ask you repeatedly if you are going to attend and demand an explanation if you say you are not attending. Where did your injury occur? Did it happen on company property? What caused the injury? If a company holds a holiday party on its premises during work hours, your injury will be covered.