Construction Law

Do You Need Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Subcontractors? featured image

Do You Need Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Subcontractors?

Part of the job of a general contractor is protecting their company from liability. Construction is a dangerous business in which injuries happen, even in the safest environments. Accidents happen and contractors can utilize workers’ compensation insurance to cover the medical expenses of their employees.

Do You Need Workers’ Compensation for Subcontractors?

While you are required by law in most states to carry workers’ compensation insurance for your employees, subcontractors are often used by contractors on many construction sites. These independent contractors work closely with contractor teams and are a primary part of how work gets done. However, they technically don’t work for the contractor. Therefore, contractors are not required to carry worker’s compensation insurance on subcontractors. However, reputable Bradenton contractor lawyers will tell you, it’s critical to make sure they have worker’s compensation insurance.

If a subcontractor without workers’ compensation insurance is injured on a jobsite, you may be liable for their injuries. The subcontractor may be able to file a claim against the your workers’ compensation. The subcontractor may also consider filing a lawsuit. While the Bradenton construction lawyers at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants can represent you in this process, protection is your best strategy.

Ensuring That Your Subcontractors Have Workers’ Compensation

As a part of their contract, subcontractors can be required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Prior to starting a project, you can ask them present their insurance certificate. To ensure that the certificate is valid, contact the company listed on the policy to verify. An alternative to this practice is adding the subcontractor to your policy and charging the subcontractor a fee for doing so.

To request a consultation with a Bradenton construction lawyer, please call us today at 813.579.3278 or submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.