What is a penalty for an employer not carrying Workers Compensation insurance?

The scenario presented highlights the implications for employers who fail to carry Workers Compensation insurance. When an employer does not maintain this insurance, it essentially forfeits the protections that come with it, meaning that employees have the right to pursue legal action against the employer for any work-related injuries or illnesses they may sustain. This legal avenue for employees is critical, as it provides a way to seek compensation directly from the employer when they are not covered by the statutory Workers Compensation system.

In states like Illinois, the laws are structured to encourage employers to comply with Workers Compensation insurance requirements so that the process for benefits is streamlined and less adversarial. Without this insurance, the employer loses certain legal protections and becomes more vulnerable to lawsuits filed by injured employees, who can claim damages beyond what would normally be available through insurance. This emphasizes the importance of carrying the required insurance to mitigate financial and legal risks associated with workplace injuries.