How Does Worker’s Compensation Work In California?

All businesses in California are legally required to obtain workers’ compensation insurance. Most businesses in the state are small businesses, and over 75% of small businesses staff under twenty employees.

Of the industries reflecting these numbers, the vast majority make up manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and social assistance.

With such essential fields comprising small businesses, it’s not surprising that workers’ compensation is a legal requirement, regardless of the company’s scope. Coverage is necessary no matter the size of the company or who is at fault for the job-related accident.

The way that workers compensation coverage in California works is that employers pay for the insurance coverage of medical costs and additional benefits workers receive after experiencing an on-the-job injury or illness.

The diverse business activity in California makes worker’s compensation an essential component of the state’s economic stability. Auto repair, electronic manufacturing, machinery, and finance are just some of the state’s top industries utilizing workers’ compensation.

For more information on how California worker’s comp works if in California, consider the following information.

California Worker’s Comp Insurance Coverage

California businesses require workers’ compensation insurance to protect employees and employers from issues arising due to workplace accidents and injuries.

Five primary benefits are included in workers’ comp; these are medical care coverage, disability benefits for the short-term, disability benefits for the long-term, supplemental work benefits, and death benefits.

Each of these California worker’s comp benefits addresses either medical or financial needs that affect the employee after a job-related injury.

State-specific Legalities To Keep In Mind 

Your employer must obey the laws about coverage, including paid-for medical care coverage and providing coverage to workers who may be covered as independent contractors.

Being a legal U.S. resident is not required to receive most workers’ compensation benefits. California worker’s comp insurance also covers stress-induced injuries. However, not all psychological injuries may be covered if your job does not directly cause them.

Workers’ compensation does not cover injuries after termination if a worker is laid-off before any accident or injury. 

When To Report An Injury To an Employer

If you experience a work-related injury, report the incident to your employer. You can avoid delays in obtaining your benefits and get medical care immediately by reporting immediately.

California worker’s comp requires that the injured employee inform the employer within the thirty-day time period directly following the incident, or benefits may not be received. 

How Employers Can Prevent Likelihood Of Worker Injury

Employers can offset the possibility of increased injury on the job by fulfilling the legal obligation to have the Injury and Illness Prevention Program in place as part of California worker’s comp requirements.

Workplace safety protocols and workplace safety culture are introduced as part of California worker’s comp to reduce the likelihood of job-related injury.

Set Your Business Up For Success With Coverage

Set your business and your employees up for success by following through on the legal requirement to obtain California worker’s comp insurance. With California worker’s comp, you can address injuries responsibly and reduce the likelihood of employer liability.

Additionals:

• How Do You Win A Personal Injury Claim?
• What Is the Process for Personal Injury Claims?
• How To Build A Successful Personal Injury Lawsuit In 5 Easy Steps
• Four Data-Backed Reasons To Hire A Lawyer For A Personal Injury Case