Independent Contractors and Workers’ Compensation in Van Nuys

Workers’ compensation is designed to support employees who sustained injuries while on the job by covering medical expenses and lost wages. However, it does not cover everyone. Independent contractors must often pay their own medical expenses, even if they are working with someone else.

If you are an independent contractor and were injured while working, contact a workers’ compensation attorney for help seeking benefits. Our team could help you understand the process for independent contractors and workers’ compensation in Van Nuys and advocate on your behalf to help ensure you receive the coverage you deserve.

Who Qualifies as an Independent Contractor?

According to Assembly Bill Five § 2750.3, an employee is considered an independent contractor if the hiring company can establish that:

• The contractor is free from control and direction in how they perform their services
• The contractor performs work outside the standard operations of the hiring company
• The contractor is typically engaged in an independently established trade, occupation, or business

If an employee is classified as an independent contractor in Van Nuys, the hiring company is not legally required to cover them under workers’ compensation. This could result in you paying for all of your medical expenses, even though you were working for that business at the time of your injury.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Independent Contractors

According to California Labor Code § 3351, an employer with one or more employees must have workers’ compensation insurance to cover workplace injuries. This applies to the following types of employees:

• Full-time workers
• Part-time workers
• Seasonal workers

It covers all employees, regardless of whether they have a green card or are U.S. citizens, although there may be restrictions for non-citizens. However, due to misfiled paperwork or employers intentionally attempting to avoid paying for workers’ compensation insurance in Van Nuys, part-time or seasonal workers are sometimes misclassified as independent contractors.

Independent Contractor Workers’ Compensation Rights

Independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation coverage in Van Nuys. Therefore, employers do not have to cover their medical expenses if they are injured on the job.

However, you still have options available. If you feel you were improperly classified, you may be able to seek compensation from the company’s workers’ compensation insurance.

You may also be entitled to compensation if you have proof that someone else contributed to your injury. The legal team at Glauber Berenson Vego is knowledgeable about workers’ compensation requirements in the state and could help you find the best possible solution for your case.

Consult an Attorney in Van Nuys About Independent Contractors and Workers’ Compensation Today

Ideally, you will have insurance through a program before you are injured on the job. However, even if this is not the case, you still have options. If you were injured while working, it is crucial to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to help you begin building your case.

Our team is here to help you secure workers’ compensation benefits to cover your injuries. They could help you understand any rules regarding independent contractors and workers’ compensation in Van Nuys and fiercely advocate for benefits. Do not attempt to navigate this process alone, as your employer may attempt to deny coverage or misclassify you to avoid paying for benefits. Get in touch with Glauber Berenson Vego today for a free case evaluation.