Fines and Penalties
Almost every state imposes a penalty or fine if a business does not carry the proper amount of worker’s compensation insurance. In California, you can be fined between $10,000 and $100,000 if you do not have the worker’s compensation insurance. Some states, like Pennsylvania and New Jersey, have laws to incarcerate employer’s for up to 7 years if they do not have the required worker’s compensation insurance.
Your Employees Have the Right to Sue
If worker’s compensation insurance is not in effect when a work-related accident occurs, your employees have the right to sue you for damages. This can include their medical expenses, lost wages from being off of work, and in some cases, for their pain and suffering.
Is Your Business Exempt?
If you own a business and don’t have employees, you may not be required to have workers’ compensation insurance. You may also be exempt if you haven’t reached the minimum number of employees for your state.
A Gaylord & Nantais, our attorneys can help you find out whether or not your business is exempt from having worker’s compensation or if you have enough to meet the needs of your employees. Don’t get caught without it! Call and schedule an appointment today!
