According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the most common work-related injuries are sprains, strains, and tears. These account for nearly one-third of all nonfatal injuries that occur in the workplace. Many of these injuries are caused by lifting heavy objects, repetitive motions, or falling.
From sprained ankles to pulled muscles, the workplace can be a minefield of potential injury—not to mention costly.
Today, let’s explore four common injuries that occur in the work place and why getting workers compensation insurance coverage is in your best interest.
You know the type. He's the one who slips on a wet floor and sues the company for millions. Or maybe he trips over a loose carpet and ends up with a concussion. Whatever the case may be, there's always that one guy who seems to get injured at work more often than anyone else.
Let's face it, office work might lead to dangerous injuries. You've got paper cuts, carpal tunnel, and the ever-present danger of being crushed by a falling stack of papers. And don't even get us started on the dangers of office chair ergonomics.
Of course, it's not just office workers who are at risk of being injured at work. Those in manual labor jobs are also at a higher risk of injury, due to the nature of their work. From lifting heavy objects to working with dangerous machinery, there are plenty of ways for manual laborers to get hurt on the job.
No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen. Whether it's a slip and fall or a workplace accident, there's always the potential for injury when you're on the job. And while some accidents may be minor, others can lead to serious injuries that could have a long-lasting impact on your health.
Why You Should Get Workers Comp Coverage
Keep your workplace safe and sound with a holistic approach! Make sure that each worker has the right tools, know-how to get their job done safely, and be compliant with all regulations. It’ll help keep everyone protected – so you can avoid any unfortunate incidents down the line.
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Workers compensation insurance is an essential form of coverage for any business, but it can be especially important for small businesses.
In the state of Florida, all employers are required to provide workers compensation coverage for their employees. This coverage can help to protect businesses from liability in the event that an employee is injured on the job.
Workers compensation insurance can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with an injury.
For small businesses, this coverage can be vital to protecting the business from a potentially devastating financial loss.
When choosing a workers compensation program, it is essential to work with an experienced agent who can tailor a program to meet the specific needs of your business.
Do I Need Workers' Compensation Insurance for My Small Business?
As stated above – if you have employees in Florida, you are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage. This includes both full-time and part-time employees, as well as temporary and seasonal workers.
The only exception is if your business is exempt from the workers’ compensation law.
To be exempt, your business must meet all the following criteria: have fewer than four full-time equivalent employees, have no out-of-state employees, and be engaged in an exempt occupation.
If your business does not meet all three of these criteria, you must provide workers’ compensation insurance for your employees.
How Much Does Workers' Compensation Insurance Cost For a Small Business?
Workers compensation in Florida typically costs between two and four percent of an employer’s payroll.
The actual amount will depend on the industry, the size of the business, and the claim’s history.
For example, a business with a high rate of workers’ compensation claims will pay a higher premium than one with few claims.
Workers’ compensation insurance is an important part of any business’s risk management strategy.
It helps to protect the business from liability in the event that an employee is injured on the job. In addition, it can help to cover the cost of medical care and lost wages for employees who are unable to work due to their injuries.
As a result, workers’ compensation insurance is an essential part of doing business in Florida.
How Do I Get Workers' Compensation Insurance For My Small Business?
You can obtain workers’ compensation insurance through a commercial insurer (like us), the Florida workers’ compensation system, or self-insurance.
Each option has its own requirements and benefits.
Commercial insurers offer a wide variety of workers’ compensation programs, and the rates will vary depending on the size and type of your business.
The Florida workers’ compensation system is administered by the state, and it offers coverage to businesses that are unable to obtain insurance from a commercial insurer.
Self-insurance is an option for businesses that meet certain criteria, such as having a strong financial history and a good safety record.
When choosing a workers’ compensation programs, it is important to compare the options and choose the one that best meets the needs of your business.
Working in Florida is both an exciting and sometimes, confusing prospect.
A big question workers have is: “Does Florida require workers compensation insurance?” In short, the answer is yes. However, workers comp isn’t required for all workers.
There are certain workers who fit into workers comp exemptions – such as elective officers of municipalities, real estate brokers and salespeople and small business owners with three or fewer employees – so make sure to confirm your particular situation with an appropriate authority.
Prevent On-the-job Injuries Before They Happen
While workers comp is no laughing matter for Florida business owners, the best way to look at it is as an investment rather than a cost.
After all, you can’t put a price tag on preventing on-the-job injuries before they happen. The right safety training and practices can save time, money, and future headaches by protecting workers from accidents that could have been avoided.
Everyone wants a safe workplace – why not start today?
Who Is Exempt From Workers Compensation Insurance in Florida?
Florida business owners are always trying to save a dime, but they overlook being exempt from workers’ compensation insurance at their own risk!
Florida has a set list of exempt workers who include: real estate brokers and sales associates, domestic servants, casual laborers, employees who are members of the employers immediate family.
It is important to note that the more high risk the employee’s work is, the more they should be insured. So while Florida businesses may come across an opportunity to save on insurance premiums by being exempt from workers’ comp, it might be best for them to play it safe instead.
Are Independent Contractors Covered by Workers Comp in Florida?
Florida business owners know all too well that high-risk workers, such as those working in construction and similar labor-intensive industries, face certain dangers on the job. As such, Florida has instituted certain measures to provide compensation to independent contractors who might be injured while performing their duties in the workplace.
While some states do not offer this type of coverage to independent contractors, Florida does provide a mechanism to ensure that these hardworking citizens have access to support should they experience a work-related injury.
The Florida Workers’ Compensation Program offers opportunities for both employers and workers to avail of important resources that can help them get back on their feet following any unfortunate accident or illness related to work.
Why Pick OCMI for Workers Comp Insurance in Florida?
Looking for workers’ comp insurance in Florida? OCMI is the solution: with low rates on program, we make it easier to take care of your team without breaking the bank.
Plus, we offer exemplary customer service and a team of dedicated agents ready to answer any questions or get you set up swiftly and painlessly.
So when you need something done that’s both cost-effective and reliable, why not let OCMI do what it does best? After all, you wouldn’t try to mix margaritas with a wrench, would you?
Ultimately, no joke – workers in Florida should understand their rights when it comes to workers compensation insurance!
Understanding Worker’s Comp Death Benefits
A fatal workplace accident can be tragic and difficult for everyone involved. Workers’ compensation in Florida provides death benefits to the families of deceased employees who died as a result of work-related injuries or illnesses.
The purpose of this article is to explain what these benefits are, who is eligible, and how to apply for them.
What are Workers’ Comp Death Benefits?
Workers’ compensation death benefits provide compensation to families who have lost a loved one because of work-related injuries or illnesses.
The money provided in these benefits can be used to cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and other expenses associated with the death of an employee. Please note that these benefits do not replace lost wages or salaries that the deceased would have earned had they lived.
Do Workers' Compensation Death Benefits apply to everyone?
For an individual to qualify for workers’ compensation death benefits in Florida, certain requirements must be met. In order to qualify, the deceased must have been employed by a Florida business at the time of their death and must have died as a result of an occupational disease (such as mesothelioma).
The family member filing the claim must also prove that they were financially dependent on the deceased at the time of death.
What Are The Steps In Filing A Claim For Workers' Compensation Death Benefits?
To file a claim for workers’ compensation death benefits in Florida, you will need to contact your local Department of Financial Services Division of Workers’ Compensation office with proof of employment and financial dependency.
In the event that your claim is approved, you will receive payment within 30 days of the date your claim was filed. If you disagree with any aspect of your decision, you may appeal to DFS.
Having to deal with unexpected losses caused by work-related injuries or illnesses can be challenging. It is for this reason that we want to remind employers and employees about Florida’s worker’s compensation; so that families can receive some financial assistance during this trying time.
