Workers' compensation laws require employers to purchase insurance that protects employees who are injured at work. It's important for you as an employer to be aware of the details of the law and make sure your business is properly covered. The insurance team at Mutual Underwriters, with locations in Hilo, Honolulu, Waipahu, Kona, and Maui, HI, discusses some frequently asked questions that employers may have about workers' compensation insurance.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance FAQ

What Does Workers' Compensation Cover?

Workers' compensation covers employee injuries or any job-related illnesses. These injuries or illnesses do not necessarily need to occur in the workplace. Employees are covered if they are injured while traveling for business, attending an off-site business meeting, or running a work-related errand. Covered injuries include accidents and those that occur over time such as repetitive stress injuries.

What Are an Employer's Workers' Compensation Responsibilities?

It's important for employers to fulfill their workers' compensation obligations or they can be fined and sued by injured employees in court. Employers must also post required notices in a convenient location for employees about their legal rights. If an employee is injured, employers must provide them with a claim form within 24 hours after receiving notice of injury.

What Benefits Are Available Under Workers' Compensation?

The workers' compensation system provides income while employees are not at work, repayment for medical expenses, and vocational rehabilitation benefits including education and on-the-job training. Employees who are temporarily unable to work may receive disability payments of two-thirds of their average wage up to a certain amount. If injured employees are permanently unable to work, they may be eligible for long-term benefits or a lump-sum amount for their disability.

The insurance team at Mutual Underwriters has provided residents of Hawaii with comprehensive insurance coverage since 1958. If you require workers’ compensation coverage, call them at (808) 532-2888 or visit them online to learn more about their other business insurance policies.