A worker who is on an errand or special mission for the employer is in the course of employment even though on the way to or from work. What is this exception called?

• A. Special Mission Exception
• B. Coming and going rule
• C. Commercial traveler rule
• D. Personal risk

Answer: (A)

When an employee is sent to perform an errand or a specific task for the employer, that travel stays within the course of employment even if it happens during the usual commute. This is the Special Mission Exception. The trip is considered work-related because its purpose is to further the employer’s business, and the employee is acting under the employer’s direction. So injuries that occur during that travel are potentially compensable. The general rule is that going to and from work is not in the course of employment, but this exception makes the travel part of the job when it serves a business purpose.