Utah Contractor Practice Exam

What is typically NOT covered by workers’ compensation insurance?

1. Job-related injuries

2. Workplace illnesses

3. Injuries during employer-sponsored events

4. Injuries caused by intoxication

The correct answer is: Injuries caused by intoxication

Workers' compensation insurance is designed to provide financial support and medical assistance to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. It typically covers a range of incidents that occur as a direct result of employment, such as injuries sustained during regular work activities and workplace illnesses that arise from exposure to hazardous conditions. Injuries caused by intoxication, however, are generally excluded from coverage under workers' compensation policies. This exclusion is based on the principle that if an employee was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the injury, their ability to perform their job safely is compromised, which can be seen as a contributing factor to the incident. As a result, insurers may deny claims related to injuries that are incurred while an employee is intoxicated, as this scenario falls outside the purpose of the workers' compensation system, which is meant to support workers in circumstances beyond their control. In contrast, job-related injuries, workplace illnesses, and injuries occurring during employer-sponsored events are typically covered, as these scenarios align with the intent of the workers' compensation program to protect workers from unforeseen incidents directly tied to their employment conditions.