Workplace Injuries in Michigan: Your Legal Rights and Options

Getting hurt at work can be a tough situation. You might worry about your health, your job, and how to pay your bills. In Michigan, there are laws to help workers who get injured on the job. Understanding the road to compensation can give you peace of mind when you’re injured and don’t know where to turn. Common questions people injured at their employment may have include: What are your legal rights and options if you’re hurt at work? How do you file for workers’ compensation? What are the types of benefits you might get? And what can you do if there’s a problem with your employer?

Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Michigan

Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that most Michigan employers must have. It’s there to help workers who get hurt or sick because of their job. Here’s what it covers:

• Medical Bills: It pays for your medical treatment for the injury or illness.
• Wage Loss Benefits: If you can’t work because of your injury, it can help cover part of your lost wages.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: If you can’t return to your previous job, it might help pay for training for a new job.

Filing for Workers’ Compensation

If you’re hurt at work, tell your employer about the injury as soon as possible. There’s a time limit for reporting. Then, get medical help and tell the doctor that your injury happened at work. Your employer is required to file a workers’ compensation claim with their insurance, and in an ideal world, you get compensated and that’s that. However, this is rarely the case. Many times, the insurance company will dispute your claim. 

Dealing with Employer Disputes

Sometimes, there is a disagreement with your employer or their insurance about your injury or claim. You will want to save all documents related to your injury and treatment so you can try to solve the problem with your employer first. Use caution, as they may well be prioritizing their company’s best interests over your own. If you can’t solve the problem, talking to a lawyer can help. They can guide you through your rights and what to do next.

Claims Beyond Workers’ Compensation

In some cases, you may have a claim that is not limited to workers’ compensation. This can happen in several instances. For example, if someone other than your employer (like a machine manufacturer) is responsible for your injury, you might have a claim against them. Or, if your employer should have workers’ compensation insurance but doesn’t, you might have a different kind of claim. Likewise, you may not be limited to worker’s compensation if your employer’s actions were so egregious that their conduct resulting in your injury, amounts to almost an intentional act.

Contact a Michigan Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Having a lawyer can be helpful, especially in complex cases. They can tell you what benefits you’re entitled to and how to get them, handle disagreements with your employer or their insurance, and if you have a claim against someone else, they can guide you through that process.

Getting hurt at work can be hard, but knowing your rights and options can make things easier. Remember to report your injury, file a claim, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. If you’re dealing with a workplace injury and aren’t sure what to do, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help you understand your rights and get the support you need.