A Michigan workers’ compensation lawyer knows that thousands of workers are injured in the state each year while doing their jobs. The majority of these hard-working employees are covered by workers’ compensation and are entitled to receive benefits for on-the-job injuries.
Unfortunately, many workers aren't aware of their work injury rights, are deterred from seeking benefits by incorrect information provided by employers, or simply don't understand how the law works to protect them. Michigan Injury Lawyers can help. Our experienced and dedicated Michigan workers’ compensation lawyers offer free consultations to injured workers and our attorneys can help clients secure the benefits that they deserve. Contact us today at (888) 454-0801 to schedule your free consultation and get answers to some key questions, including:
- What is workers’ compensation and do Michigan workers’ compensation laws cover my workplace injury?
- What types of benefits are available to me under Michigan workers’ compensation law?
- How can an experienced Michigan workers’ compensation lawyer help me get the benefits I deserve?
How Does Workers’ Compensation Work in Michigan?
Workers’ compensation is insurance coverage that employers must purchase for employees to provide financial assistance to workers who are hurt on the job. With some limited exceptions, almost all public and private employers in Michigan are covered by workers’ compensation.
Workers' compensation benefits provide broad protection for employees. You are entitled to benefits for injuries resulting from workplace accidents and because of workplace injuries or illnesses. This means that you can be covered not just for a slip-and-fall or an electrical injury or other injury caused by an accident, but also for repetitive stress damage like carpal tunnel syndrome or for illnesses caused by toxic exposure at work. You are even entitled to receive workers’ compensation coverage for injuries that are not work-related but that were aggravated by your job.
What Benefits Are Available Under Michigan Workers’ Compensation Law?
Under Michigan Workers' Compensation law, various benefits are available to employees who have suffered work-related injuries or illnesses. These benefits are designed to provide financial support and access to necessary medical treatment. Here's an overview of the key benefits:
Medical Benefits
Workers' compensation provides 100 percent coverage of medical costs. It covers all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to the work-related injury or illness. This includes doctor's visits, hospital care, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and other medical services.
Wage Loss Benefits
Wage loss benefits aim to replace a portion of your lost wages if you're unable to work due to a work-related injury.
There are different types of wage loss benefits:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Provides wage replacement while you are completely unable to work.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): Offers partial wage replacement when you can work but at a reduced capacity.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD): Available if your injuries leave you permanently unable to perform any type of work.
Vocational Rehabilitation
If you cannot return to your previous job due to your injury, Michigan workers' compensation may cover vocational rehabilitation services to help you find new employment.
The benefits are provided through the insurance company and, in some cases, you may be entitled to receive vocational rehabilitation support for up to two years depending upon the severity of your injury.
Workers Comp may also include fair compensation for the following:
- Mileage Reimbursement- Reasonable travel expenses related to medical appointments and treatments.
- Specific Loss Benefits - Specific injuries or body parts lost or impaired, such as fingers, toes, eyes, and hearing.
- Disfigurement Benefits - Compensation for serious and permanent disfigurement resulting from a workplace injury.
- Death Benefits - If a work-related injury or illness results in the death of an employee, death benefits may be available to their dependents, such as surviving spouses or children.
The specific benefits you may be entitled to depend on the nature and severity of your work-related injury or illness. The amount of compensation may vary, and the process for obtaining benefits can be complex. Consulting with a Michigan Workers' Compensation lawyer can help you understand your rights and navigate the workers' compensation system to ensure you receive the appropriate benefits.
Maximize Your Coverage with a Michigan Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Workers’ compensation is supposed to ensure you don't face financial loss after you get hurt. However, sometimes legitimate claims are denied or there are disputes over benefits. A Michigan workers’ compensation attorney can:
- Help you meet all requirements for obtaining benefits, including providing notice to your employer about your injury
- Help resolve benefits disputes and ensure you get full coverage
- Prepare you so you understand what to expect if asked to undergo an independent medical exam (IME)
- Appeal benefits/claim denials
- Evaluate whether a third-party lawsuit is possible to obtain broader compensation outside of the workers’ compensation system
Since Michigan Injury Lawyers was founded in 2008, our firm has been fighting for the rights of people hurt on the job. A Michigan workers’ compensation attorney at Michigan Injury Lawyers has the experience needed to help those who have been hurt at work and who are being treated unfairly within a system designed to protect their rights.
Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury
Take the following steps to ensure your well-being and protect your rights after an on-the-job injury:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. If the injury is severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For less severe injuries, report the incident to your employer and request medical attention. Make sure to document all medical treatment and keep copies of medical records.
Report the Injury to Your Employer: Notify your supervisor or employer about the injury as soon as possible. Many states, including Michigan, have strict reporting deadlines for workers' compensation claims. Provide details of how the injury occurred and the date and time it happened. Follow your company's specific reporting procedures.
Document the Incident: Write down the details of the accident while they are fresh in your memory. Include any witnesses, if applicable. Take photographs of the accident scene or any hazards that contributed to the injury.
File a Workers' Compensation Claim: In Michigan, you should file a First Report of Injury (Form WC-100) with the Michigan Workers' Compensation Agency. Your employer may assist you with this process. Be sure to keep copies of all paperwork and communication related to your claim.
Consult with an Attorney: Consider seeking legal advice from a Michigan Workers Compensation attorney, especially if your claim is complex or if it's been denied. Even if your claim seems straightforward, an attorney can help protect your rights, gather evidence, and navigate the workers' compensation process effectively.
Follow Medical Advice: Comply with your doctor's recommendations and attend follow-up appointments. Keep records of your medical treatment and expenses.
Communicate with Your Employer and Insurance Company: Maintain open communication with your employer and the insurance company handling your claim. Cooperate with any investigations or requests for information related to your injury.
Be Aware of Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights under Michigan's workers' compensation laws. An attorney can help explain these rights and guide you through the process.
It's crucial to act promptly and responsibly after a workplace injury. Legal assistance is valuable to ensure you receive the compensation and support you're entitled to under the law.
Get Help With Michigan Workers’ Compensation Laws Today
Understanding Michigan workers’ compensation laws is difficult, especially as you try to cope with an injury, an illness or the death of a loved one on the job. Let our Michigan personal injury lawyers empower you to understand the law and use it to protect you. Contact us today at (888) 454-0801 to learn more about how we can help with your case.
Michigan Worker’s Compensation Lawyer