Utah Contractor Practice Exam

Who is usually held responsible for injuries occurring on a job site covered by Workers Compensation?

1. Employer

2. Employee

3. Both parties equally

4. Neither party

The correct answer is: Employer

In a job site scenario where injuries occur, it is typically the employer who is held responsible under Workers Compensation laws. This system is designed to ensure that employees receive medical care and compensation for lost wages due to work-related injuries, regardless of fault. The principle behind Workers Compensation is to protect workers by providing a no-fault system where they can receive benefits without needing to prove that their employer was negligent. Employers are required to carry Workers Compensation insurance, which covers these liabilities. In exchange for this coverage, workers generally give up their right to sue the employer for negligence related to workplace injuries, thereby simplifying the process of receiving compensation for injuries sustained on the job. Other options consider shared or alternate responsibilities between the employer and employee, which does not align with the established framework of Workers Compensation law. The focus is primarily on the employer's duty to maintain a safe work environment and meet regulatory requirements, further solidifying their responsibility in such instances.