What does the increased risk principle imply in the context of workers' compensation?

The increased risk principle in the context of workers' compensation indicates that workers are exposed to greater risks of injury compared to the general public. This is rooted in the nature of work environments and job duties that often involve hazardous conditions or higher physical demands, which can lead to a higher incidence of injuries among workers.

This principle justifies the existence of workers' compensation programs, as these programs are designed to provide benefits to employees who are injured in the course of their work. By acknowledging that the work environment inherently poses more risks, the principle also reinforces the responsibility of employers to create safer workplaces and the social contract that underpins workers' compensation insurance.

Other options do not accurately capture the essence of the increased risk principle. For instance, the idea that workers are less susceptible to injuries than the public contradicts the principle itself. The statements about public injuries not being covered and restricting claims to only on-site workers do not accurately relate to the broader implications of worker risks and protections afforded under workers' compensation laws.