01 Jul Worker’s Compensation for Engineers
Some historians will tell you that the railroads built America. Prior to their installment across the Plains states and the mountain ranges of the West, cross-country travel had to be done by foot or by horse- neither of which was efficient or inherently safe. Yes, trains played a critical role in the development of the United States, and they continue to play a crucial role in commerce today as they shuttle goods from sea to shining sea. The men and women who choose to work around locomotives are a tough bunch who put in a lot of hard work to keep things running smoothly. It is because of their hard work that worker’s compensation for engineers is an important topic to consider.
Any job that is labor-intensive comes with a higher risk of accident and injury than a job that is performed behind a desk or with less physical effort. Rail companies have taken many precautions over the years to make the work of an engineer much safer than ever before, but the possibility for accident is still present. Incidents as serious as a derailment or as minor as hoisting oneself in and out of a locomotive on a daily basis can all lead to injury accidents. Many times, these injuries are enough to keep an employee from being able to work for a length of time.
When an employee is injured and unable to perform their job duties, worker’s compensation goes into effect and can provide two different types of financial protection. The first is to your employee. Medical bills, physical therapy, medication, and other health care costs are covered by worker’s compensation. Also, a portion of the employee’s salary is provided through worker’s compensation, ensuring that they have some form of income while they are unable to work. The second form of financial protection is to you the business owner. Generally speaking, when an employee accepts worker’s compensation benefits, they give up their right to sue the company for any damages related to the accident in the future. While this may sound cold or uncaring, it is meant to be a protective measure that keeps an employer from paying twice for the same accident.
Worker’s compensation insurance can be purchased through one of three sources: a state’s division of worker’s compensation, a trade union, or a private underwriter whose policies are acceptable to the state where the business operates. It is not an inexpensive investment, but in most states, it is a required investment. In order to legally operate a business, most states require that worker’s compensation insurance is purchased, regardless of how many individuals a business employs.
It takes special mental and physical ability to be an engineer. For occasions when those abilities are affected by an injury of some kind, having worker’s compensation insurance will ensure that you, your employees, and your business are financially protected. Set aside a time to speak with an agent who specializes in worker’s compensation insurance today to find the amount and type of coverage that best fits the needs of your company.
All information is general in nature and is intended to provide guidance only. It is up to you to request specific coverage options, the agency and agent do not bear this responsibility. Always read the policy if there is a questions about coverage or a claim. If any information herein should conflict with your actual policy’s specific language, the policy language will be controlling.
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