Workers' Compensation Laws

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In the United States, virtually all employers with one or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation coverage. The exceptions to this rule vary from state to state but can include:

• Agricultural businesses

• A person or entity employing less than two full-time domestic workers in a private home

• Employers with workers covered under federal workers’ compensation programs

• Certain religious organizations

• Any homeowner employing a residential maintenance or repair person for up to 20 consecutive workdays

 

Written claims for workers’ compensation needs to be filed with the insurance carrier within a few days to notify the carrier of the work-related injury.

 

Keep in mind that if you operate your business without Workers' Compensation Insurance in the state of Kentucky, you can be fined up to $1,000 per employee for each day you fail to provide coverage. You can also be ordered to close your business, and you might even face criminal penalties, including jail time. Other states have similar laws in place.

 

If you would like more information about the laws in Kentucky, read this Overview of Kentucky’s Workers' Compensation Laws. For Indiana visit the Worker’s Compensation Board. Information on Ohio’s laws can be found at the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. Finally, information specific to Tennessee can be found at the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.

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What Injuries Are Covered by Workers' Compensation?

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In most states, Workers' Compensation Insurance can cover injuries or illnesses that happen on the job or while your employee is acting on behalf of the company. This includes things like sprains from lifting heavy items as well as car accidents that occur while making a delivery to customers or employees getting sick from chemicals at work. This insurance can also cover any injuries from work-related violence, terrorism, or natural disasters. Around 30% of workers' claims result from sprains or strains, which usually come from lifting and transporting objects. Another 27% of workers’ claims are for slips, falls, and trips. 

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What Does Workers' Compensation Insurance Pay For?

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Workers' Compensation Insurance helps give your employees the benefits they require after they suffer a work-related injury or illness. This insurance also limits your company’s liability in lawsuits for work-related injuries or illnesses. This coverage can help employers and employees pay for:

• Wages - If your injured or ill worker needs to take time off while they recover, this insurance will at least partially cover their missed wages.

• Medical Expenses - Any medical treatment that your employees need as a result of their work-related injury or illness.

• Rehabilitation - If a worker requires any sort of ongoing care or vocational rehab to help them return to work, workers’ compensation can help cover those expenses.

• Death Benefits - Should a worker pass away due to a work-related indecent, Workers' Compensation Insurance will help with benefits like funeral costs.

• Disability - If a work-related injury or illness results in a permanent or partial disability, Workers’ Compensation Insurance can help provide benefits.

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How Our Process Works

Filing a Workers’ compensation insurance claim might seem complicated, but Slade & Collins and our carriers will help make it as easy as possible.

1. An injured or ill employee reports the worker’s claim to their supervisor.

2. Employer completes a First Report of Injury.

3. Official paperwork is submitted to the insurance company within the state-required filing time limits.

4. Once all paperwork has been received and approved, the benefits begin.

5. Employer provides injured or ill employees with necessary accommodations to help them return to work.

 

For more information on Workers’ Compensation Insurance for your business, request a quote or contact Slade & Collins Insurance today. We are located in Lexington, KY, and we proudly serve Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, and Tennessee.