Workers’ compensation is a lifesaver when and if something ever happens to you while you are on the job, and it is only available for your use if you have gotten hurt. Workers' compensation laws provide money and medical benefits to an employee who has an injury as a result of an accident, injury or occupational disease on-the-job. All employers are required by law to carry this type of insurance because it prevents being sued by the one hurt. Workers have the right to be protected as they work and certainly in the case of an accident. Workers' compensation is designed to protect workers and their dependents against the hardships from injury or death arising out of the work environment. In this way it actually benefits both the employee and employer. With the rising costs in the medical profession, any accident could potentially result in financial difficulties for the employer if they don’t carry this insurance. Some cases would surely bankrupt some small business owners. The employer also benefits because the employee agrees not to sue or press charges. The question of fault is not discussed, as the injured one is being cared for medically and financially.

When an incident occurs, the necessary information is recorded and the injured one proceeds to file for the workers’ compensation. After all the information has been evaluated, workers’ comp determines availability. When accepted, all medical bills are paid and the employee receives money (usually on a weekly or biweekly basis) and medical benefits in place of any right the injured might have to sue the employer.

If an employer fails to obtain workers’ compensation, the employee is free to file in the civil court system or to file a claim against the states’ workers’ compensation system. Employers who try to avoid getting this insurance can lose their personal assets and other business assets as well. Wise employers encourage safety programs to reduce on-the-job accidents. By doing this they can also lower their premiums because the payments are based on the number of accidents. Employers who motivate and educate their employees in safe work habits and environments, will not only prevent accidents but will also keep their employees happier in the long run.