13 Dec Worker’s Comp: Accidents Happen, Be Prepared

Even with the best company policies in place, accidents can happen. If an employee is injured on the job or in another job related activity, such as a company party or running an errand on behalf of the company, then the employer is responsible for paying for all medical costs and lost wages for that employee. Workers compensation is a “no fault” insurance program that should cover these employer costs.

Besides being a wise addition to an employer insurance program, it is required by law. The fines can get pretty hefty if an employer is caught without providing worker’s comp insurance.

Some of the most typical injuries occur from doing simple things such as lifting a box that is too heavy, falling off a ladder or chair, falling on a slippery surface either inside the employer’s location or while walking up to the location. It is nearly impossible to prevent every accident from happening.

Worker’s Comp is a “no fault” program. So even with a proper safety program in place and even if the employee was negligent when the injury occurred, the employer is still responsible. In addition, with the greater amount of time that employees spend at computers, employees are increasingly receiving compensation for repetitive stress injuries (RSI’s), such as carpal tunnel syndrome, back problems and vision problems.

In addition, with the greater amount of time that employees spend at computers, employees are increasingly receiving compensation for repetitive stress injuries (RSI’s), such as carpal tunnel syndrome, back problems and vision problems.

Have a Worker’s Comp Plan in Place

Having a thorough Workman’s Compensation policy in place will provide coverage for the financial liabilities as well as limit lawsuits while providing legal representation.

Typical financial liabilities include:

• Medical services required to treat the injury or illness
• Temporary disability payments to replace lost wages
• Permanent disability payments to compensate for permanent effects of the injury
• Death benefits to employee’s survivors in case of a fatal accident
• Legal representation for the employer by the insurance company

It is clear that the cost of a worker’s comp insurance policy quickly pays for itself when an accident happens. Be prepared, get insured.