Defenses Available to Uninsured Employers in Arizona
Under Arizona law, employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for all employees. However, there are important exceptions to this rule, and not every business relationship creates an employer-employee relationship under the law.
Workers’ compensation coverage is not required for the following:
Independent contractors
Workers whose employment is casual and not part of the employer’s usual business
Domestic servants working in a private home
Still, determining whether someone is truly an employee or an independent contractor is not always straightforward. Many Arizona business owners mistakenly assume that a worker is a contractor, only to later face liability for workers’ compensation benefits. At Palmer Law Offices, P.C., our attorneys fight vigorously to ensure that employers are not unfairly held responsible for claims that don’t meet legal requirements.
Legal Strategies for Uninsured Employers
If you’re an uninsured employer facing a claim, you may still have legal defenses available to protect your business. After an initial consultation, our attorneys will evaluate your potential liability and recommend the most cost-effective defense strategy available.
Even if you can’t avoid liability completely, there are ways to minimize the financial impact. A workers’ compensation defense attorney can help you determine which approach will lower your exposure and defense costs.
Common Legal Defenses for Uninsured Employers
Several defenses can be used to fight or reduce liability in an Arizona workers’ compensation case:
No actual work-related accident occurred
The injury is not compensable or was not caused by employment
Another employer (such as a general contractor or subcontractor) is responsible
The injured party is an independent contractor, not an employee
The business is not legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance
Speak with an Arizona Workers’ Compensation Defense Attorney
If you’re a small business owner or contractor concerned about an injury claim, you don’t have to face the situation alone. Palmer Law Offices, P.C. is one of Arizona’s leading law firms for uninsured employer defense. We provide aggressive, experienced representation to help employers understand their rights and protect their companies from unnecessary financial harm.
We serve clients across Arizona, including Phoenix, Prescott, and across the state. Call us today at 602-277-2007 or visit our Contact Us to schedule a consultation.
