Michigan
Workers' Comp Lawyer

In Michigan, workers who suffer injuries or illnesses on the job can access benefits through the state’s workers’ compensation program. These benefits can help cover medical expenses, replace lost wages, and provide other support, giving workers the resources they need to recover and move forward. 

But understanding Michigan workers’ compensation laws, the types of benefits available, the claims process, and how much compensation you’re entitled to can be overwhelmingly complex, especially when you’re coping with an injury. 

If you feel your workers’ compensation benefits are inadequate or they have been wrongfully denied, a Michigan workers’ compensation lawyer in TopDog Law’s network can help you secure the benefits you need to get through a workplace injury or illness.

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Your Guide to Workers' Comp in Michigan

James Helm, Personal Injury Lawyer

Understanding Michigan Workers’ Compensation Laws

Workers’ compensation in Michigan is a no-fault insurance program that allows employees to receive financial and medical assistance if they suffer work-related injuries or illnesses that prevent them from working. Michigan law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation coverage. 

No-fault means that an employee does not need to prove their employer was at fault to qualify for benefits. These laws exist to protect Michigan workers, regardless of industry, and they are intended to offer a direct path to compensation to avoid lengthy legal battles. 

Michigan workers’ comp laws also outline specific rights for workers, including the types of benefits available, the steps for filing claims, and protections against retaliation from employers.

The complexity of workers’ comp claims can make it challenging for workers to get the full benefits they deserve. TopDog Law can connect you with a Michigan worker’s compensation lawyer in your area to help you better understand your rights and options if you encounter obstacles with your claim. 

Workplace Injuries and Illnesses that Qualify for Benefits

Most workplace injuries or illnesses can qualify for workers’ comp benefits as long as they occurred while the employee was performing job-related duties. Qualifying injuries and illnesses vary widely, from sudden accidents to repetitive stress injuries to chronic illnesses caused by toxic exposure.

 

Examples of qualifying conditions for workers’ compensation include:

  • Traumatic injuries, such as fractures, sprains, or dislocations
  • Repetitive stress injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis
  • Respiratory illnesses from exposure to hazardous substances
  • Occupational diseases, such as certain cancers related to workplace toxins
  • Aggravated pre-existing conditions caused by work-related duties

Michigan workers facing any of these conditions may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Consulting an attorney in TopDog Law’s network of local lawyers can help you understand how Michigan laws apply to your specific situation.

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The Process of Getting Workers’ Comp in Michigan

Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Michigan involves several steps. 

  1. Report the injury or illness to your employer: Michigan requires workers to notify their employers immediately after the injury or diagnosis. Waiting too long to report the issue can invalidate your claim.
  2. File a claim: Once reported, the employer submits a claim to the workers’ comp insurance company, which will then investigate.
  3. Get medical treatment: If injured on the job, Michigan workers may need to see a doctor approved by their employer’s insurance company for the first 28 days of treatment.
  4. Claim determination: The insurance company will either approve or deny the claim based on their assessment. If approved, benefits begin; if denied, you may need to appeal.



Deadlines for Filing Your Michigan Workers’ Compensation Claim

Timing is essential when filing a workers’ comp claim. In Michigan, employees must report their injury or illness to their employer within 90 days of the incident. Failing to do so could make them ineligible for benefits.

However, the formal claim does not need to be filed immediately after this report; Michigan provides up to two years from the date of injury or illness for the formal claim.

Missing these deadlines can jeopardize the ability to receive benefits. If your employer is pushing back against your claim or you’re concerned about deadlines, a Michigan workers’ comp lawyer can provide guidance on the next steps.



The Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits You Could Receive

Michigan’s workers’ compensation program offers a range of benefits to address your specific needs following a work-related injury or illness. Here are two of the main categories:

Medical Benefits

Workers’ comp medical benefits cover necessary treatments for work-related injuries or illnesses. Coverage may include doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and, in some cases, ongoing rehabilitative care. 

Michigan law typically allows workers to select their own physician after 28 days of treatment under an employer-approved provider, giving them more control over their healthcare choices.

Wage Replacement Benefits

If an injury or illness prevents a worker from performing their job duties, wage replacement benefits can help cover a portion of their lost income. These benefits usually amount to about 80% of the worker’s after-tax weekly wage. In Michigan, workers may also qualify for additional benefits if they are partially or permanently disabled due to their injuries.

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What You Can Do If Your Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied

Workers’ comp claims in Michigan can sometimes be denied due to insufficient documentation, employer disputes, or disagreements about the severity of an injury. However, denial does not mean it’s the end of the road. 

Michigan employees denied workers’ compensation benefits can appeal. The appeal process generally involves:

  • Requesting a review of the denial
  • Collecting additional medical records or documentation
  • Attending a hearing with a Michigan workers’ comp magistrate if necessary

A skilled Michigan worker’s compensation attorney from TopDog’s legal network can substantially improve the outcome of your case. 

Getting Additional Compensation for Your Workplace Injuries

While workers’ comp is intended to be the primary recourse for injured Michigan employees, there may be instances where additional compensation is possible. If a third party’s negligence contributed to the accident—such as a manufacturer of faulty equipment—a Michigan worker may have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim outside of workers’ compensation.

TopDog Law’s network of Michigan lawyers can assess your case to determine if third-party compensation may be an option for you.

Contact a Michigan Workers’ Comp Lawyer Now

James Helm with Phone and Cash Bag

TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers

Michigan Office

645 Griswold Street, Suite 1309
Detroit, MI 48226

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