Getting hurt on-the-job does not have to be stressful when you know your legal rights and other reasons to hire a workers’ comp lawyer.

Our job is to protect employees who are hurt at work. We do this by asserting their legal rights and making sure that maximum dollars are paid. They cannot rely upon their employers or insurance companies to do the right thing. What does a workers’ comp lawyer do? Here are various scenarios that everyone should plan for in advance.

Investigation stage

What does a workers’ comp lawyer do at the investigation stage? It is important to make sure that notice has been given to the employer within 90 days and claim was made within 2 years. There is no statute of limitations so having proof these items were completed means the difference between getting future workers’ comp benefits or not.

It is common for employers to require an accident report be filled out. The insurance company may also want a recorded statement of events. Items like failed drug tests, lying coworkers, alleged misconduct, and preexisting medical conditions all play a role in whether or not a claim is approved. Make sure to speak with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer to find out how to get through the investigation stage.

Payment of benefits

Workers’ comp is supposed to be a safety net for disabled employees. It pays all medical bills and a percentage of lost wages. What does a workers’ comp lawyer do if payment is already being made? Insurance companies like to control medical treatment and work restrictions. Understanding your legal rights is the key to having a successful recovery.

Individuals on workers’ comp are allowed to select their own doctor after 28 days from the start of medical care. They are entitled to all reasonable and necessary medical treatment regardless of cost.

Wage loss benefits should also be paid if they miss more than 7 consecutive days. The amount should equal 80% of their after-tax average weekly wage. This should include overtime, discontinued fringe benefits, and even second jobs.

Dispute

Insurance companies look for all kinds of reasons to dispute payment of workers’ comp benefits. The most common involves being sent to an independent medical examination (IME). The truth is these insurance doctors make careers out of testifying against disabled employees. It is also common for private investigators to follow people and do activity checks. This so called evidence is then used to show a claim is not 100% legitimate.

What does a workers’ comp lawyer do if a claim has been disputed? It is possible to challenge a dispute by filing an Application for Mediation or Hearing. The matter will be assigned to a magistrate who will decide if workers’ comp benefits should be paid or not. Having a lawyer on your side usually means the difference between winning and losing.

Settlement

What does a workers’ comp lawyer do for a settlement? Insurance companies know that people who are represented understand their legal rights and have the means to enforce them. It is critical to develop medical and vocational evidence so that maximum dollars are paid for settlement. There is no fee unless additional workers’ comp benefits or a settlement is obtained. Don’t accept low-ball offers without getting a free consultation.

Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.

Related information:

Average Workers’ Comp Settlement Amount in Michigan For 2022

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