Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that is paid for by an employer and that offers benefits to employees who become injured or ill on the job. It is a standard practice in the state of North Carolina, and the majority of the U.S., for companies to provide this insurance to their workers. It is also a way for employers to demonstrate their care and concern for their employees and customers. However, not every company has workers’ compensation, which can create problems.
Workers’ compensation is especially important for tree service companies to have because of the dangers inherent in the type of work they do. Working from any significant height, trimming off branches, hauling trunks, and operating heavy machinery can pose safety risks. If a tree professional were to become injured while doing a job on your property, ideally the company will have workers’ compensation, otherwise you could be held liable.
The likelihood of needing to pay for an injured worker’s medical bills is difficult to determine. The worker may file a personal injury claim against their employer themselves, but there is a possibility that you will be held liable instead, especially if the conditions on your property were unsafe due to your negligence. To avoid this possibility, always hire professionals who have workers’ comp.
Protect yourself in these ways:
- Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) – This certificate lists the company’s policy numbers and limits, so you can confirm they have coverage.
- Check the Dollar Value Covered – Ensure the company has sufficient coverage in case of an accident so that you aren’t responsible for the costs.