Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Protecting your employees and your business—even if you’ve been declined elsewhere

Coverage That Keeps You Working

No matter where you operate in the Western US, if you have employees, you likely have a legal obligation to protect them. Workers’ Compensation is the shield that stands between your business and financial disaster following a workplace accident.

As an independent broker partnering with Bearstar Insurance Services, I specialize in securing coverage for businesses of all sizes—from main street retail shops to high-hazard industrial operations.

What Does Workers’ Comp Cover?

This insurance is a "grand bargain" that protects both you and your workforce. It generally provides:

• Medical Care: Covers hospital visits, surgeries, and rehabilitation for work-related injuries.

• Lost Wages: Replaces a portion of income while an employee recovers.

• Legal Protection: In most cases, it prevents employees from suing you over workplace injuries.

• Employer’s Liability: Covers legal defense costs if a lawsuit is filed alleging negligence.

Specialized in "Hard-to-Place" Risks

Have other agents told you "No"?
Many standard insurance carriers avoid businesses with high risks, dangerous work environments, or a history of claims (high X-Mod).

I take a different approach. I have access to specialty markets and state-backed insurance funds designed specifically for:

• Construction & Roofing: High-height exposure and manual labor.

• Transportation & Trucking: Long-haul and local delivery risks.

• Staffing Agencies: Managing variable workforces.

• High X-Mod Businesses: Companies recovering from previous claims.

We utilize national bureaus (like NCCI) and State Funds to ensure that no eligible business goes uninsured.

Frequently Asked Questions About Workers' Compensation Insurance

Do I really need workers' compensation Insurance?

In almost every state, Workers' Compensation is mandatory as soon as you hire your first employee. Failure to carry it can result in severe state fines, stop-work orders, and personal liability for medical bills.

Can I cover myself as the owner?

Rules vary by state, but generally, business owners and executive officers can choose to "opt-out" of coverage to save on premiums, provided they have health insurance elsewhere. However, you must still cover your staff.

What about Independent Contractors (1099s)?

This is a common pitfall. Just because you pay someone via 1099 does not automatically exempt you from liability. If a state audit determines they function as an employee, you could be liable for back-premiums and penalties. We can help you determine who needs to be covered.

.

Why have I been declined by other insurance companies?

Standard insurance carriers have very strict "risk appetites." If your business is in a high-hazard industry (like roofing, tree trimming, or trucking), is a brand-new venture without a track record, or has a history of claims, standard carriers often view the risk as too high.

The Good News: Being declined doesn't mean you can't get insured. It just means you need a broker with access to the secondary market and State Funds. We specialize in placing these exact types of risks.

Can I get a "Ghost Policy" (Owner-Only) just to satisfy a contract?

A "Ghost Policy" is a policy where the owner is excluded, and there are zero employees, leaving a policy that technically covers "no one" but provides a Certificate of Insurance.
Many standard carriers refuse to write these because they generate very little premium but carry a high risk of "surprise employees" showing up later. We can help you secure this coverage, but be aware that if you hire anyone (even for a day) or if a subcontractor is uninsured, all insurance companies perform a yearly audit for workers compensation insurance. You will end up paying for the proportional amount due for the risk of an employee injury,

I subcontract 100% of my work. Why is it so hard to find coverage?

This is often called being a "Paper Contractor." Many insurers dislike this model because of Vicarious Liability. Even if you don't pick up a hammer, if your subcontractor gets hurt and doesn't have their own insurance, the law often holds you responsible.

Most carriers fear they will end up paying claims for workers they didn't know existed. However, we have access to carriers who will write policies for 100% subcontracted work, provided we set up a system to verify your subcontractors' certificates of insurance.

Need a Workers Compensation Quote?

Why spend hours calling different carriers? Enter your details below, and I will check rates with over 200 top-rated providers to find you the best deal.

One brief call could save you hundreds this year.

Phone

(888) 601-0088 Ext 108

Email

jesus@bearstarins.com

Request a Quote Online!