Understanding Workers Compensation
Typically, a worker’s compensation policy is written in two parts: “Part One – Workers Compensation,” and “Part Two – Employers Liability.”
Under Part One, the insurance provider provides coverage for whatever the state-required amounts of compensation may be. Each state determines features such as:
Unlike many other types of insurance, workers compensation coverage has no celling or limit on the policy amount. The insurance provider accepts the statutory obligation of whatever the employer is legally obligated to pay as a result of the injury.
Part Two of the policy provides coverage for an employer who is sued by an employee for work-related bodily injury or illness that isn’t subject to the state statutory benefits.
Examples include:
Auto
If you rely solely on IC drivers using their own equipment, then a Hired/Non-Owned Auto Liability policy for $1,000,000 is needed. It will provide protection to you, as the courier company, should you be named in a claim or legal proceeding as a result of an auto claim involving your IC driver. It provides no coverage to an IC driver, but it does provide your company with legal defense and indemnification in the claim, should you need it. If you also have a fleet of vehicles, this can sometimes be included on the insurance policy you have for your fleet.
Cargo / Bonding
Much like the IC, you have a responsibility to keep customers’ goods safe and the use of a good Motor Truck Cargo insurance policy is needed. Your use of ICs also necessitates the need for courier/dishonesty bonding which will protect against first-party theft and allow you to say your drivers are “bonded." Policy limits (in both cases) should be the same and should be high enough to cover the value of replacing customers’ goods. It should be noted that if you require cargo insurance from your ICs, you could increase your own cargo deductible to match the policy limit they are providing, without duplicating or sacrificing coverage, and potentially saving premium dollars.
General Liability
Once again, you likely need the same standard limits ($1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 general aggregate) as the ICs. But it's possible your landlord or customers may ask for increased limits, which are available. This coverage will provide protection to you, as the courier company, should you be named in a claim or legal proceeding as a result of non-auto or non-cargo related claim. It provides no coverage to an IC, but it does provide your company with legal defense and indemnification in the claim, should you need it.
Depending on the nature of your business, there are several different options from which to choose so working with an insurance broker who understands the unique needs of your business can help you successfully navigate the intricacies of EPLI.
Most employment practices liability insurance carriers provide coverage for legal costs, settlements and judgments that arise from claims stemming from the following:
Risk Strategies’ data and cyber liability coverage can include the following:
Speak to One of Our Representatives About Our Product and Services.