Workplace accident insurance is a legal requirement, that provides financial protection to employers by compensating employees who get injured on the job. It protects employers from lawsuits, promotes workplace safety, and ensures a prompt and fair resolution for workplace injury claims. Having workplace injury insurance exhibits a commitment of the employer toward employee welfare and legal compliance.
What is workplace accident insurance?
Workplace accident insurance definition: This insurance is often referred to as workers’ compensation insurance. It provides financial protection to employees who suffer an injury, die, or become ill due to workplace accidents. The purpose of workplace accident insurance is to protect both employers and employees. It protects employers from statutory liabilities arising from workplace accidents. Workplace accident insurance coverage includes:
Death benefits
In case an employee dies unfortunately in a workplace accident, occupational accident insurance typically compensates the dependent family members of the deceased worker with the death benefits.
Disability benefits in workplace accident insurance
If a work-related injury or illness results in temporary or permanent disablement, workplace accident insurance provides disablement benefits. The compensation paid for loss of earning capacity is as per the provisions of the Workmen Compensation Act, of 1921. However, the amount of compensation may vary depending on the extent of disability.
Income replacement
Injured employees may be entitled to receive a portion of their lost wages during the period they are unable to work. This helps ensure financial stability for the affected workers.
Medical expenses cover in workplace accident insurance
Workplace accident policy typically covers the cost of hospitalisation, medical treatment, rehabilitation, and other medical expenses related to a work-related injury or illness.
Punitive damages cover
Punitive damages are typically not a component of workplace accident policy. It works on a no-fault system, which means workers receive benefits for workplace-related injuries regardless of fault.
Punitive damage in the context of workplace accident insurance
Punitive damages in the context of workplace accident policy typically refer to additional damages awarded to an injured worker beyond compensatory damages. Compensatory damages include the death benefit, disability benefit, wage replacement, and medical coverage that is given to the affected worker.
On the other hand, punitive damages are not meant to compensate the injured employee for their losses. It intends to punish the employer for their intentionally harmful conduct. Punitive damages awarded to workers intend to deter similar behaviour of the responsible party in the future. Punitive damages are not always available in every jurisdiction, and their availability and limitations vary by jurisdiction. Hence, it is important to consider while availing of the policy.
In the context of work-related accidents, punitive damages might be awarded to employees in cases where the employer’s conduct is found to be particularly intentional or reckless. For example, if an employer fails to provide necessary safety equipment, willfully violates safety regulations, or conducts that puts employees at severe risk, punitive damages may be considered.
Let us understand it with an example. Let us say an employer intentionally ignores safety regulations that lead to workplace accidents. In a standard workers’ compensation claim, the injured worker gets compensated without having to prove the employer’s fault. However, if the injured worker accuses the employer of a willful act and puts a civil litigation against them, a court might consider punitive damages as a way to punish the employer for their actions.
Conclusion
It is important to note that workers’ compensation is designed to provide resolution for workplace injuries on a no-fault basis. And, punitive damages are generally not a component of this system. Punitive damages are commonly associated with civil lawsuits, such as personal injury, or employment discrimination which are a result of wilful conduct. Employees making the claim and the employers availing the workplace accident insurance must keep this in mind.
About The Author
Mayank Sharma
MBA Finance
He is a professional who brings extensive knowledge and expertise to the field of group health insurance. He has dedicated 7years to helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of insurance. Having worked closely with numerous clients and insurance providers, he deeply understands the nuances of group health insurance policies. With a reputation for providing insightful and informative content, he leverages his industry experience to educate readers about the importance of group health insurance and its benefits. Through their articles, Mayank Sharma aims to empower individuals and businesses to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage, ultimately promoting healthier and more secure communities.
