Which statement best describes the preponderance standard?

• A. Preponderance standard for psychiatric injury
• B. Clear and convincing standard
• C. Proximate cause
• D. Beyond a reasonable doubt

Answer: (A)

The preponderance standard means proving the claim is more likely true than not. In civil matters, including psychiatric injury claims under California self‑insurance plan rules, you must tip the scales slightly past 50% to meet this burden. So for psychiatric injury, the claimant must show it is more likely than not that the injury is work-related and compensable, which fits the statement describing the preponderance standard for psychiatric injury. This is different from the higher clear and convincing standard, and far different from the criminal beyond a reasonable doubt standard, and it’s not simply about proving proximate cause.