For example, there is the horseplay exception, which generally prevents workers’ compensation benefits for workplace injuries that are the result of “horseplay” on the part of the employee. However, there are exceptions that require us to look at the facts of your case very closely to make sure the exclusion does not apply to you. You can also be barred from workers’ compensation for injuries you sustain because you were intoxicated, or committing a crime when you were injured. Workplace fights that result in injuries are another potential exception that could bar you from benefits, but it’s important to note that if the fight originated by something regarding the work itself, or if you are not the aggressor, you may still be entitled to collect comp.

We typically see these types of cases when an employee must come out of the workforce due to repetitive work activities that, over time, become disabling them to the point that they are no longer able to work full duty. As long as we can show that this disability is the result of an occupational illness or disease, or by repetitive work activity that cumulatively, over time, resulted in the inability to work, then there would be a workers’ compensation case.