Workers compensation is a form of insurance designed to protect employees who are injured at work. Workers comp provides wage replacement and medical benefits to injured employees in exchange for mandatory relinquishment of the employee’s right to sue his or her employment for negligence. While workers comp has existed for many years, it is not without its flaws. One area of concern is fraud. Specifically, dishonest employers who evade their obligations under worker compensation laws. One of the most detrimental forms of fraud are premium scams. These scams, along with other deceptive practices, help contribute to the estimated $7.2 billion in unnecessary costs caused by workers comp fraud. In a premium scam, the employer may decide to underreport payroll. If employees are paid less, “on paper”, then the employer’s premiums will be reduced.
Another tactic, is to inflate employee experience. When an employer claims workers possess more experience than they actually do, they are less risky, and thus, less expensive to cover. In addition to inflating employee experience, employers also hid their employees. For example, the employer may falsely claim that certain workers are independent contractors, and therefore do not count toward the employers mandatory workers comp premiums.
These tactics are illegal and it is important for employers to honor their workers comp commitments.
Contact an Experienced Workers Compensation Lawyer
The St. Louis Workers Compensation Lawyers at Roskin & Hoffmann, LLC have nearly 50 years of combined Work Comp experience and we have handled some of the most complex Workers Comp cases throughout Missouri. If you have been injured at work, call our knowledgeable attorneys at (314) 821-9013 or send us a Workers Comp question. We look forward to helping you. All communications are returned promptly.
Workers Compensation Lawyers at Roskin & Hoffmann, LLC based in St. Louis, Missouri have nearly 50 combined years of work comp experience. Call our attorneys today.
