Do I have to pay an employee’s medical bills if thy were hurt on the job andI don’t have worker’s comp?
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Do I have to pay an employee’s medical bills if thy were hurt on the job andI don’t have worker’s comp?
I run a small grooming shop. I have 2 part-time employees. One was bitten on the wrist by a customer’s dog. Not bad but by evening it was swelling and painful so she went to the ER. I don’t have worker’s comp. She has Medicare but they won’t pay since it happened at work.
Asked on July 28, 2011 Virginia
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Most states in this country have significant penalties to an employer who fails to carry worker's compensation insurance and the employee is injured on a job related accident. The penalties are significant starting with payment of medical expenses, lost wages, penalties and attorneys fees since the employee can sue the employer for injuries sustained on the job where there is no worker's compensation policy in place.
You should consult with a lawyer immediately about the situation you are in and try and get a written release from your employee in exchange for a payment of money to him or her. You should also get immediate quotes for a worker's compensation policy for your business to protect yourself personally.
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