Workers compensation is a form of insurance that protects employees and businesses. It provides wage replacement and medical benefits to employees who are injured while working. It is highly beneficial and is state-mandated. Understanding workers compensation is critical as it is a vital component of your overall insurance plan. Below you will find a workers compensation 101 guide.
Workers Compensation 101 Guide
Workers compensation is highly beneficial as it provides financial support and medical care in the event of an injury or illness in the workplace. This protects both employees and employers from undue financial burdens caused by workplace accidents. If you are unfamiliar with workers compensation, consider the following information in this brief guide.
What Is Workers Compensation?
Workers compensation is mandated by the state and is a necessary form of insurance. Workers compensation insurance can be purchased from reputable Los Angeles insurance sellers. Also, workers compensation aims to provide financial support and medical care to employees injured on the job. Additionally, it protects businesses from hefty lawsuits related to workplace injuries or illnesses. The insurance covers full-time, part-time, and temporary employees. However, it generally does not cover independent contractors.
What Is Covered By Workers Compensation?
Workers compensation covers several injuries and illnesses that occur in the workplace. The following injuries are all covered by workers compensation.
Traumatic Injuries:
Injuries can occur in any workplace which is why workers compensation insurance is so important. Traumatic injuries caused by accidents are commonly covered by workers compensation. These types of injuries include fractures, falls, or cuts. They commonly cause pain and discomfort which require medical treatment and may require time away from work.
Work-Related Illnesses:
Occupational illnesses include exposure to certain hazards. Common hazards include chemicals, loud noises, or even ergonomic hazards. Illnesses related to these workplace hazards can develop over time. Oftentimes, they cause long-term health issues. Workers compensation can cover these types of injuries so it is critically important to ensure your business is covered.
Stress Injuries:
Traumatic injuries are apparent right away as they are acute. However, another common workplace injury includes repetitive stress injuries. These injuries are often caused by activities such as typing or lifting objects. Similar to work-related illnesses, repetitive stress injuries develop over time. They often result in chronic pain and other unwanted symptoms. Protecting your business and employees from stress injuries by carrying workers compensation insurance is vital.
Types of Benefits
Workers compensation benefits include medical care, lost wages, and disability benefits.
Medical Care:
Injuries or illnesses that occur on the job can result in medical costs. This includes everything from surgeries and hospital stays to doctor visits and medication. Workers compensation covers these medical costs so the burden is not on the employee.
Lost Wages:
Workers compensation provides compensation for lost wages. Certain illnesses or injuries can result in missed work. Because of this, employees are entitled to recover at least a portion of their lost wages. Each state is different, so it’s important to consult with your state’s workers compensation laws.
Disability Benefits:
In severe cases, certain workplace injuries or illnesses can result in disability. For someone who is permanently disabled after a workplace incident, workers compensation may cover additional compensation. The amount depends on the severity and nature of the resulting disability.
Los Angeles Insurance Sellers
If you are opening a business or are looking for a new insurance provider, consult with the team at Safecal Insurance Services. They provide business insurance customized to meet your unique needs. The team at Safecal has helped countless businesses stay covered and protected for years. Contact the top workers compensation agents today for more information!