Workers’ compensation may not cover North Carolina car services

There are many jobs in North Carolina and across the country that are referred to as “on demand” jobs. These positions include car service drivers, delivery drivers and domestic workers, just to name a few. In each of these occupations, individuals run the risk of being injured on the job, but sometimes issues exist as to whether these individuals could qualify for workers’ compensation.

A recent report stated that taxi drivers and other car service drivers suffer fatal injuries on the job at a rate that is five times higher than the average for other workers. However, many car services do not have workers’ compensation protection and often classify their workers as independent contractors. It is not required that independent contractors be covered under workers’ compensation.

Due to this lack of protection, it is understandable that many workers may be hesitant to join such businesses. If they are seriously injured, they could face medical bills and time away from work, which could lead to ongoing financial burdens. As a result, many individuals may believe that clarifications to workers’ compensation laws to include on-demand workers could be useful.

If a North Carolina worker is injured on the job, he or she may wish to determine whether the qualifications for workers’ compensation are met. If workers would like more information on these benefits, they may wish to utilize local resources that could provide reliable information. Additionally, speaking with experienced attorneys may help concerned individuals better understand their situations and what steps may be needed to potentially achieve those benefits.

Source: qz.com, “Gig economy workers injured on the job should get workers’ comp protections“, Debbie Berkowitz, June 24, 2016