Can I Still Obtain A Workers’ Compensation Settlement If The Accident Was My Fault?

Question

I was injured at work but it was my fault- will workers’ comp cover it?

Answer

It is still possible to get workers’ comp benefits.

A Workers' Comp Settlement Is Possible

If an accident is your fault, you can still be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, and thus a workers’ compensation settlement would be possible. The only exceptions that could bar you from having a workers’ compensation settlement are the same exceptions that would prevent you from having a workers’ compensation case at all.

When A Case Is Questionable

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.

The System Of Workers' Comp

Just because you may have been careless, or an incident was your fault, you are absolutely still entitled to workers’ compensation benefits provided that all of the other factors that you are required to prove are present. This is what is meant when people say workers’ compensation is a “no fault” system. For example, you may be guilty of being injured because you are “clumsy” in doing your work, but if you got hurt doing your job, you’re entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.

Things To Remember

When the legislature created the workers’ compensation system, the goal was to create a system that provided compensation for workers who get hurt at work. The trade-off that occurred when creating this system is that while the worker does not have to show that his employer was negligent or at fault for the injury, the amount that the worker is entitled to receive under the workers’ compensation system is not equal to what he or she potentially could recover in a “traditional” personal injury case. At the same time, it is also important to note that even if your employer was negligent or at fault for your injuries, you are not entitled to anything more than injured workers who were hurt through no fault of the employer. Please remember, however, that some work injuries result in the injured worker being able to collect benefits under the Rhode Island workers’ compensation laws and pursue a personal injury case as well (for example, if you drive for a living and someone rear-ends you, you can be on comp and pursue a personal injury case against the driver that hit you).