Workers Compensation

Agriculture is big business in California and it takes a great deal of manpower to ensure that it run smoothly. Those who work in it are required to be covered by workers compensation. This includes those workers who are seasonal or migrant. Additionally, undocumented workers are also entitled to the same benefits as other workers in the agricultural industry.

The name of the employer’s claims administrator or insurer must be posted for all to see at the work site. The procedures that employees need to follow in the event that they are injured must also be posted prominently at the work site. Federal and state laws prohibit employers from retaliating against those employees who much such claims.

Uninsured Employers Trust Fund Helps Employees

Employers who choose not to follow the law and provide their employees with the required workers compensation could see their businesses hit with fines, penalties and more. Workers who are injured while on the job – and who qualify – can seek retribution from the Uninsured Employers Trust Fund. Like uninsured motorist insurance, though, this entity should not be looked on as a way to cut the costs of insuring workers.

Employers Face Penalties, Fines and More

In nearly all cases, if an employee petitions the Uninsured Employers Trust Fund for payment for damages incurred while employed with a business that does not have workers compensation or that does not have adequate coverage, this governmental agency will turn to that employer to collect the damages for the employee. Fines and penalties are almost always levied against the business. In addition, there could be jail sentences imposed against the owners of the business. Finally, the business could be stripped of any licenses and/or permits that it possess in the state of California. This move effectively shuts down the business as it will not be able to operate without the required licenses and permits.