There are many mistakes to avoid when dealing with workers’ compensation management and ways to avoid issues that may arise. Workers’ compensation management is challenging for many reasons. Most business owners lack the thorough understanding needed for dealing with workers’ compensation claims in the workplace. It often leads to mistakes that can prove costly in the long run. Understanding the most common errors in workers’ compensation claims can help protect your business and your employees.
Under-insuring Your Business
Workers’ compensation insurance coverage goes according to your payroll and employee rosters. Failing to keep this information updated with your insurance carrier can result in insufficient coverage for new hires that are not yet on the policy. Make sure you maintain regular contact with your workers’ comp insurance provider to keep your coverage up to date.
Forgetting To Put People First
One mistake owners make when faced with a workers’ compensation claim is forgetting to look past the bottom line. It is important to remember that, while your business is facing an insurance claim, you have an employee who is injured. Make sure to focus on the personal element first and allow yourself to express compassion and empathy. Sometimes, showing your human side and expressing that level of concern can make the difference between settling the case with your employee versus negotiating with an attorney.
Skipping the Drug Test
Most businesses introduce drug testing policies. These protocols are in place for good reasons. Especially when faced with an accident on the job site, drug testing should be mandatory immediately after the incident. If you wait too long, it may not give you accurate results. Likewise, drug use could absolve your company of liability for an injury, saving you money on your workers’ comp policy in the long run.
Terminating the Injured Employee
You may want to fire the injured employee, especially if you feel like the accident was their fault. Likewise, you also might want to replace the employee to meet your production demands. The truth is that, in most situations, it is a violation of the law for you to fire an employee who has filed for workers’ compensation. Before considering termination, make sure you understand the legal ramifications.
Not Providing Accommodations
It is illegal and unethical to terminate an employee following a workers’
compensation claim. Also, it’s legally required for you to accommodate that employee’s limitations on the job. For example, a loading dock employee with a physical injury may need to be put on a desk job while they recover. You must understand accommodation requirements and adhere to them. The correct preparation and understanding make all the difference when facing a workers’ compensation claim.
About InsureMyWorkComp
InsureMyWorkComp is a digital brokerage that helps clients find the right workers’ compensation solution for their business needs. Unlike other online platforms, we will help you to work with an agent who can provide you the right solution for your risk profile. Our staff has over 50 years of workers’ compensation underwriting and sales experience, and we are confident that we will provide you the support that you need. For more information or to get a quote, contact us today at (855) 340-9138.