Business owners understand that there are numerous situations they need to prepare for. Everything from natural disasters to slow economic growth could have negative effects on the daily operations of an organization. However, company decision makers must keep themselves protected from unforeseen legal issues as well.
For example, a workers compensation policy is a wise investment, as it will guarantee financial protection and prevent legal liability for businesses should an employee injure themselves on the job. Working with commercial insurance specialists will help companies find a policy that meets its needs and will keep all aspects of the organization covered.
According to a Washington State Department of Labor and Industries news release, a Spokane man is being charged with workers compensation fraud after operating his own business after claiming a workplace injury. The report says that Doyle Wheeler collected benefits from 2008 to 2011 after a pickup truck slowly backed into him at his employer, Toby's Body and Fender.
"The Spokane Valley Voice wrote a story on Wheeler citing his business success while he was receiving time-loss benefits," Elizabeth Smith, manager of L&I's Fraud Prevention and Compliance Program, said in the press release. "This kind of fraud damages the system. It steals from everyone - taxpayers, employers who pay workers' compensation premiums and the injured workers who really deserve benefits."
Wheeler's attorney told The Spokesman-Review that his client is looking forward to his day in court and is sure that he will be vindicated.
Legal costs can be expensive and spending time away from a business could also hinder the day-to-day operations. Having a commercial insurance policy that accounts for workers compensation is a necessary protection that organizations across all industries should invest in.