If you’re a business owner in Zachary—or in nearby towns like Jackson or St. Francisville—you’ve probably heard of Workers’ Compensation insurance. But do you really know what it covers, who needs it, or why it matters?
At Castello Agency, we talk with local business owners every day who have questions about Workers’ Comp. So, let’s break it down—no confusing jargon, just real answers.
What Is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
First things first, what is Workers’ Comp?
It’s a type of insurance that covers medical expenses and lost wages when an employee gets hurt or sick because of their job. In some cases, it even provides long-term support if they can’t return to work.
For example, if your delivery driver twists an ankle on the job, or your shop assistant gets injured lifting a heavy box, Workers’ Comp helps pay for their recovery. At the same time, it protects your business from a lawsuit.
Do I Really Need It in Louisiana?
The short answer: Yes, you probably do.
In Louisiana, businesses with one or more employees must carry Workers’ Comp. This includes:
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Full-time employees
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Part-time employees
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Seasonal workers
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Some subcontractors, depending on how they’re classified
In other words, if someone works for you and can get hurt doing that work, you likely need this coverage.
Moreover, failing to carry Workers’ Comp can lead to fines, stop-work orders, or even personal liability. More importantly, offering it shows your team that their health and safety matter to you.
What Does Workers’ Comp Actually Cover?
So, what’s actually included in the coverage?
A standard Workers’ Compensation policy typically pays for:
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✅ Medical expenses related to job injuries or illnesses
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✅ Lost wages while the employee recovers
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✅ Rehabilitation services like physical therapy
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✅ Disability benefits if the employee can’t return to work
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✅ Death benefits for the family if the worst happens
Altogether, it’s a financial safety net—for both your team and your business.
What It Doesn’t Cover (And Why That Matters)
However, it’s important to know what Workers’ Comp does not cover. For instance, it usually excludes:
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❌ Independent contractors
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❌ Injuries that occur outside of work
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❌ Incidents caused by intoxication or intentional acts
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❌ OSHA fines or other legal penalties
Therefore, it’s smart to pair Workers’ Comp with other coverages—like General Liability or Professional Liability—to create full protection for your business.
Real-Life Example: Why It Pays to Be Covered
Let’s bring this to life.
Imagine you run a small landscaping company. One of your employees trips over a piece of equipment and breaks their wrist while loading the trailer.
➡️ Without Workers’ Comp, you could be responsible for medical bills, lost wages, and even legal fees.
➡️ With coverage in place, your policy takes care of those costs—allowing you to support your employee without draining your business account.
As a result, you gain peace of mind and avoid potential financial disaster.
Let Castello Agency Help You Get It Right
At Castello Agency, we specialize in helping Louisiana small businesses—just like yours—get the right protection in place. Whether you’re in Zachary, Jackson, St. Francisville, or the surrounding areas, we’re here to simplify the process and answer your questions.
Above all, we’re a local team that genuinely cares.
📞 Let’s Talk
Castello Agency
📍 Visit us: 4257 Church St #107, Zachary, LA 70791
📞 Call us: (225) 654-2313
🌐 www.castelloagency.com
📧 Email: danette@castelloagency.com