It is almost inevitable that one or more of your employees will suffer injuries in the workplace. Often, these injuries come from risks you can either avoid or some you cannot. As such, you should have a compensation plan to stop your employees from filing an injury suit against you. It is the best way to protect your business from liability attached to injuries and damages suffered in the workplace. If you are considering getting the plan, here are some basics you should know.
How the Program Works
This compensation is an insurance scheme that protects your employees from injuries and damages they might get in the workplace. The programs are a legal requirement in most states and also mandated by the government. The specific rules of the program might differ in your state, but the objective of the insurance cover is the same. Your employees will benefit by getting medical care and other supportive benefits when they suffer an injury that puts them out of work. The insurance simplifies the process of your workers accessing a certain percentage of their wages when injured or disabled.
Which Employee Types Does the Program Cover?
Every state has unique guidelines about when an employer should get the insurance program. In some states, there is a threshold in the number of employees your company should have before you qualify for the program. Some states also have varying rules about industries that make it for the insurance program. A reliable lawyer is your best resource when navigating these complications in the process. They understand the state employment laws and how you can work with them to minimize liability.
The Types of Injuries Covered in the Program
The program is supposed to cover and compensate people injured at the workplace. In some states, the insurance will also cover all the illnesses you might acquire working in a particular industry. Additionally, the insurance might cover any rehabilitation the employee might undertake when the injury impairs them, making it impossible to resume their previous station.
How Employees Make a Claim
You and the employee will have obligations when handling workers' compensation issues. Your role is to buy the insurance from a broker. The employee's role is to report the injury and complete the required paperwork.
All these processes run well when done under the guidance of a workers compensation lawyer. Speak to one close to you and get the best help handling injuries and sickness in the workplace.