Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Southfield, MI

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Southfield, Michigan?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Southfield Police Department is (248) 796-5500.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Southfield, Michigan?

  You can get copies of police reports for incidents related to your case by submitting a request to the Southfield Police Department Police Records Bureau found at the Civic Center Campus at Civic Center and Evergreen Roads.

• What injuries are covered in workers' compensation cases in Southfield?

  Workers' compensation insurance typically provides coverage for the majority of work-related injuries, encompassing accidents and illnesses resulting from work activities, materials, and equipment. Southfield workers' compensation benefits can also be applicable even if the injury doesn't happen at the actual workplace but is work-related, such as injuries during work-related travel or while providing services at a customer's location. Exposure to toxic substances can also be covered if it is proven that the employer failed to provide their employees with proper protective gear.

• In Southfield, what can you do if you sustain a work-related injury and your employer doesn't have workers' compensation insurance?

  If your Southfield employer does not have workers' compensation insurance, you can file a lawsuit directly against them to get compensation for work-related injuries. This compensation generally covers medical expenses related to your short- and long-term recovery but may also include compensation for the pain and suffering you endure due to the injury.

• How can you tell if you are not receiving the proper amount of workers' compensation benefits in Southfield?

  In Southfield, workers' compensation benefits should generally cover related medical care, lost wages, retraining costs if your injury prevents you from working in the same capacity as before, and permanent benefits for permanent injuries. If you are not receiving these benefits in the capacity that helps you recover, you can consult with legal counsel to see if you can negotiate with or litigate against your employer.

• Can you lose your job if you file a workers' compensation claim in Southfield?

  Southfield employers are prohibited by law from terminating your employment because of work-related injuries, but can still fire you for other non-discriminatory reasons. You may have a case against your employer if they fire you for valid reasons after your injury or workers' compensation claim, provided you have little to no history of disciplinary actions or unprofessional behavior before being fired.

• Is the choice of doctor important for workers' compensation claims in Southfield?

  It is important to choose specialist doctors, such as orthopedic surgeons and physical rehabilitation specialists, who are willing to testify or write documents that claim your injuries are work-related. Injured employees have the right to choose their doctor within 28 days of their injury. Some legal counsel in Southfield maintains a network of trusted doctors willing to testify in favor of injured employees.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.