OAI vs. Workers’ Compensation
March 2, 2020
March 2, 2020
More companies than ever rely on both full-time employees and independent contractors. Engaging a blended workforce offers incredible flexibility. But it can also create confusion about how to best protect workers when they’re injured on the job.
Does workers’ compensation cover both contingent and W2 workers? If not, what’s the best way to protect your business and your contractors?
Occupational Accident Insurance (OAI) offers an affordable solution designed for the independent workforce. To help you find the best fit for your unique needs, we’ll explore some key differences between OAI and workers’ comp.
Workers’ comp is a state-regulated insurance program that covers medical expenses and replaces lost wages in the event of a work-related accident, death, injury, or illness. Policies are generally available through private insurance companies and state-run workers’ comp funds.
Workers’ comp is only available for W2 employees, and covers:
Coverage may not include injuries that:
OAI provides similar coverage for independent contractors who aren’t eligible for workers’ comp. It’s also available for W2 employees not covered under a workers’ comp policy.
OAI was originally created to serve the trucking industry. But in response to the fast-growing gig economy, select insurance carriers have expanded OAI to fulfill the needs of contingent workers across all fields.
OAI offers benefits similar to workers’ comp. Though it may not be legally required, providing OAI to independent contractors demonstrates your commitment to the safety of your entire workforce.
Most states’ Department of Labor requires workers’ compensation coverage for W2 employees. Specific requirements differ from state to state. For example, Texas and Oklahoma employers may opt-out of the state’s workers’ compensation law. OAI offers a cost-effective alternative for these companies.
Workers’ comp is a no-fault insurance program. That means a covered employee does not have to prove negligence to receive benefits. But in most cases, that also means they hold the burden of proof in a work-related injury lawsuit, and they can’t win judgments for punitive damages or pain and suffering.
An OAI plan may be a good fit for companies that don’t need a comprehensive workers’ comp policy. Employers can choose coverage amounts, deductibles, and limits. Plans can include survivor benefits, temporary or permanent disability, and accidental death.
While OAI may not have the same liability protection as workers’ comp, it offers employers a more affordable alternative. OAI plans can cost about 50 percent less than workers’ comp coverage.
Job-related injuries and illnesses aren’t typically covered by general health insurance. This leaves contractors vulnerable to significant medical expenses. Independent technicians can offset this financial risk by purchasing their own OAI policy.
If you’re looking for ways to help protect your growing blended workforce, adding Occupational Accident Insurance may be the perfect solution. For more information about Field Nation’s OAI program, visit our OAI webpage or call +1-877-573-4353 ext. 1.
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