California Workers' Comp -What's Not Covered?

Self-inflicted injuries or those resulting from an employee's willful misconduct are typically not covered, nor are injuries resulting from intoxication or drug use by the employee. Injuries that stem from physical altercations initiated by the employee are typically excluded from coverage. Mental injuries that lack a direct physical are generally not covered. 

Injuries that occur during an employee's commute to and from work are generally not covered under California workers' compensation. Such injuries are typically deemed outside the scope of employment. There are certain exceptions to this rule, such as instances where the employee is on a special assignment or traveling between job sites as part of their work responsibilities. Injuries that occur in employer-provided transportation or while running errands specifically for the employer may be eligible for coverage.

Injuries during breaks or lunch periods are usually not covered unless the employee was performing a task directly related to their job duties when the injury occurred. These situations can be complex, and the determination of coverage may depend on the specific circumstances and the policies of the employer.