Under the Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act, accidental injuries occurring while the employee is participating in a company sponsored event is compensable if (1) they occur on the premises as a regular incident of employment; (2) the employer requires participation in the event either expressly or implicitly; or (3) the employer obtains substantial or direct benefits from the event or activity beyond the intangible value of improving company morale.
Presumably, the employer may have the regular defenses shielding it from accidents caused by the employee’s intoxication, horseplay, or other willful misconduct. It will be a very fact sensitive analysis that will determine whether the employee can recover benefits. If you’ve been injured and need your case evaluated, please call us now (404)355-3431.