When a California worker is injured or killed on the job, workers’ compensation insurance is intended to help cover costs for medical care, loss of income and other expenses. If a person is killed in a work-related accident, the insurance will pay out death benefits and lost wages for the dependents of the person who died.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, there are certain industries that are more likely to have workers’ compensation claims, which may imply that they are more dangerous jobs. Going from highest to lowest, the industries that have the most claims include non–construction laborers, truck drivers, cleaners and janitors, nursing assistants, repair and general maintenance workers, retail salespersons, registered nurses, order fillers and stock clerks, construction laborers and delivery service drivers.
Business.com reminds workers that even if they were partially at fault for the accident or injury, they can still receive benefits. If the injury comes from something that is within the scope of their job responsibilities, they may get benefits even if they were careless. If an injury is caused by an employee under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it is likely that benefits will be denied.
Even small businesses are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect their employees. While laws vary state to state, even those with one employee must have coverage. The type of business may also affect the required coverage, but insurance can protect any business.
While some jobs are more dangerous than others, an accident or injury can happen anywhere. These injuries often lead to lifelong disability or in the most tragic situations, even death. Workers’ compensation is designed to protect the injured worker and their families when they are unable to return to work.