Each year, Michigan workers report thousands of workplace injuries. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Michigan recorded 83,600 non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2022.
The injuries ranged from minor incidents to serious, life-changing accidents, and due to this, many workers had mixed feelings about what to do to protect their rights and recover financial compensation.
Workers’ compensation acts as a safety net for such workers, providing them with ways to pay for medical care and receive lost wages. The process can be confusing and frustrating, especially when a claim is denied or when benefits are slow in coming.
That’s where the Michigan Workers’ Compensation attorney comes in—ensuring injured workers obtain benefits to which they are lawfully entitled.
We will tell you everything you should know about workers’ compensation in Michigan, from what it entails to how a workers’ compensation attorney can help you.
Know How Our Michigan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Can Protect Your Rights
Hiring a Michigan Workers’ Compensation Attorneys can be crucial if you’ve suffered a workplace injury or illness. While Michigan’s workers’ compensation system is designed to be employee-friendly, many injured workers encounter challenges, from denied claims to disputes over the extent of their injuries.
Here are several ways a Michigan Workers’ Compensation Attorney can assist:
Handle Complicated Paperwork
Filing for workers’ compensation involves completing multiple forms and submitting extensive documentation, such as medical records, accident reports, and wage statements. To avoid delays, an experienced attorney can ensure all paperwork is submitted correctly and on time.
Appeal Denied Claims
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for workers’ compensation claims to be denied. Insurance companies may argue that the injury isn’t work-related, that there’s insufficient evidence, or that paperwork was filed too late.
A Michigan Workers’ Compensation Attorney can help you file an appeal and present a strong case to overturn the denial.
Negotiate a Fair Settlement
Insurance companies sometimes offer lower settlements than the injured worker is entitled to. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and any long-term disability.
Protect You from Employer Retaliation
Filing a workers’ compensation claim can sometimes lead to tension between employees and employers. Some workers worry that their employer might retaliate by reducing their hours, demoting them, or even firing them.
A Michigan Workers’ Compensation Attorney will stand by your side and protect you from any unlawful retaliation.
Help with Permanent Disability Claims
If your workplace injury leads to a permanent disability that prevents you from returning to work, navigating the workers’ compensation system can become even more complicated. An attorney can help you file for long-term disability benefits and maximize the amount you receive.
Our Michigan Workers’ Compensation Law Firm Secure Your Benefits
When you experience a work-related injury or illness, you can seek workers’ compensation benefits, regardless of fault. At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we’re committed to guiding you through the process and securing the benefits you deserve, including:
- Healthcare Coverage: Ensures that all necessary medical treatments for your injury are fully covered. This may include visits to doctors, hospitalization, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any essential medical devices required for recovery.
- Income Replacement: Provides financial assistance to replace a portion of your lost wages if you cannot work due to the injury. For instance, in Michigan, this typically means you’ll receive approximately 66% of your average weekly wage from the time of the incident.
- Career Transition Assistance: If your injury prevents you from returning to your previous role, you may qualify for vocational retraining. This benefit supports acquiring new skills and finding employment that aligns with your current physical limitations.
- Support for Families of Deceased Workers: In cases where a workplace incident results in a fatality, the dependents of the deceased worker are entitled to compensation. This benefit helps cover funeral expenses and provides ongoing financial support to the family left behind.
Let the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm be your advocate in managing the complexities of workers’ compensation and securing the full benefits you’re entitled to after a workplace injury.
How Does Workers’ Compensation Work in Michigan?
In Michigan, workers’ compensation is designed to support employees who get hurt or sick due to their jobs. Governed by the Workers’ Disability Compensation Act, this system ensures you receive essential benefits such as medical care and wage replacement when you need it most.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what you can expect:
Medical Care
If you’re injured at work, all necessary medical treatments are covered. This means everything from doctor appointments, hospital stays, and surgeries to prescriptions, physical therapy, and even medical equipment like crutches or braces is taken care of.
Plus, you might be reimbursed for travel expenses if you need to travel for your treatment.
Wage Replacement
When your injury keeps you from working, workers’ comp steps in to help replace your lost income. You can receive about 80% of your average take-home pay (after taxes) in Michigan.
There are some limits, but this benefit is designed to keep you financially stable while you recover.
Job Training Assistance
You might be eligible for job training if you can’t return to your old job due to your injury. This service helps you learn new skills or find a different type of work that suits your current abilities, all covered under workers’ compensation.
Long-Term Disability Support
Additional benefits are available for those with a permanent injury that affects their ability to work. These long-term disability benefits aim to provide financial support based on the severity and impact of your injury over time.
At the end of the day, workers’ compensation in Michigan is here to make sure you’re not alone after a workplace injury, helping you get back on your feet and back to your life.
Common Workplace Injuries in Michigan
Workplace injuries can occur in any industry, but certain jobs carry a higher risk of injury. Understanding the types of injuries often leading to workers’ compensation claims can help you recognize whether your situation qualifies.
Below are some of the most common workplace injuries in Michigan:
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Falls are among the most common causes of workplace injuries, especially in industries like construction and manufacturing. These accidents can lead to broken bones, back injuries, and head trauma.
If you’ve been injured in a fall at work, a Michigan Workers’ Compensation law firm can help you file a claim and secure the benefits you need for medical treatment and lost wages.
Back and Neck Injuries
Heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or poor ergonomics can lead to serious back and neck injuries. These injuries are particularly common among workers in physically demanding jobs, such as warehouse employees or healthcare workers.
If your back or neck injury prevents you from working, an attorney can help you obtain compensation for your medical expenses and lost income.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Jobs that require repetitive motions, such as typing or operating machinery, can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis. These injuries often develop over time and can be difficult to prove as work-related.
A workers’ compensation attorney can gather the necessary medical evidence to support your claim.
Exposure to Harmful Substances
Workers in certain industries may be exposed to hazardous chemicals or environments that lead to occupational illnesses. For example, long-term asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma, a type of cancer.
A Michigan Workers’ Compensation Attorney can help you file a claim if you’ve been diagnosed with an illness caused by workplace exposure.
Machine-Related Injuries
Working with heavy machinery poses significant risks, particularly in manufacturing jobs. Machine-related injuries can be severe, leading to amputations, fractures, or crush injuries.
If you’ve suffered a machine-related injury, an attorney can ensure you receive full compensation for your recovery.
What Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury in Michigan?
If you’ve been injured at work, knowing what to do immediately afterward can make a significant difference in the success of your workers’ compensation claim.
Here are the steps you should take following a workplace injury:
- Notify About the Injury to Your Employer: Notifying your employer immediately after the injury occurs is essential. Under Michigan law, you must report the injury within 90 days to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, it’s best to report it immediately to avoid any potential issues with your claim.
- Get Medical Care: You should immediately seek medical treatment after reporting the injury. Your employer may direct you to a specific doctor for the first 28 days of treatment. After this period, you can choose your doctor if you notify your employer.
- Record Everything: Keep detailed records of your injury, including the date and time, how it happened, and any witnesses who saw the accident. Record all medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to your injury. This documentation will be essential when filing your workers’ compensation claim.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: Once you’ve reported your injury and sought medical attention, your employer should provide you with the necessary paperwork to file a workers’ compensation claim. You can contact the Michigan Workers’ Compensation law firm for assistance if they do not.
Challenges and Rejections in Workers’ Compensation Claims
Filing for workers’ compensation isn’t always smooth, and many claimants face challenges such as disputes or outright denials. These complications can stem from several factors, including questions about the injury’s origin, inconsistencies in the details provided, or delays in submitting the claim.
1. Disputes Over Work-Related Injuries
One of the most common points of contention is whether the injury occurred during employment. Employers or their insurance companies might question the circumstances, such as when or where the injury happened and whether it’s directly related to the job tasks.
This often leads to a thorough examination of the incident’s specifics.
2. Insufficient Evidence
Claims can be denied if they lack comprehensive medical documentation or if the injury report submitted to the employer is incomplete or vague. Proper, detailed medical records are essential to substantiate the extent and cause of the injury.
3. Failure to Meet Deadlines
Missing critical deadlines for reporting the injury or filing the claim can result in an automatic denial. Be vigilant about these timelines, promptly notify your employer, and ensure all necessary paperwork is submitted within the required period.
If your claim faces rejection, you can challenge the decision. The appeal process differs across states but generally requires submitting additional evidence, attending hearings, and having legal representation to advocate on your behalf.
The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm and his team have a proven track record of handling workers’ compensation cases in Michigan. We are known for securing major settlements and verdicts and have achieved more significant wins than any other firm nationwide.
Our commitment is to fight relentlessly until you receive the compensation you deserve.
Get Help With Our Michigan Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today!
Experiencing an accident can be devastating, leaving you with serious injuries, mounting medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. In such challenging times, you deserve an advocate who will stand by your side and fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to contact our law firm today. Our dedicated team is here to provide the strong legal support you deserve.
Our experienced Michigan personal injury lawyers are ready to discuss your situation, answer your questions, and guide you through the claims process. Contact our knowledgeable attorney today at (616) 612-2707 to get your help and secure your future.
