Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Lansing

FAQs

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

  517-483-4600 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Lansing.

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

  You have two methods to submit a request for a police report through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA):

  • Utilize the GovQA link: https://lansingmi.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_RS/(S(z4dtx3af3fyfotqmszz2eenj))/SUPPORTHOME.ASPX
  • Access the fillable FOIA request forms in PDF format and send the completed form by mail or fax to the Lansing Police Department, attention FOIA, at 120 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48933, or fax it to 517-483-4688.

  To communicate with Central Records, please dial 517-483-4680.

  FOIA request form: https://www.lansingmi.gov/asset/42e2b701-2c8a-4746-9570-2b759e1ef8d9

• What should you do if you are injured at work in Lansing?

  If you sustain a work injury in Lansing, you must immediately notify your employer, fill out an accident report, and contact a workers' compensation attorney. Please do not quit your job, as it can affect your eligibility for benefits. Your employer may ask you to see their doctor, but you can also see your healthcare provider. Keep all medical records and bills and give them to your employer. Employers are obligated to cover medical expenses regardless of fault.

• Are workers’ compensation benefits available to everyone in Lansing?

  No. Workers’ compensation benefits are not accessible to all individuals in Lansing. There are a few exemptions, including federal employees and some railroad, agricultural, and maritime workers. Employees may qualify for workers' compensation in Michigan if:

  • The injury or illness must have occurred during work-related tasks or conditions
  • The worker must be considered an employee
  • The injury or illness cannot have been brought on by the employee's willful or reckless behavior.

• What should you do if your workers' compensation claim is disputed by your employer or insurance provider in Lansing?

  It is crucial to seek the advice of a knowledgeable Lansing workers' compensation lawyer if you face a disagreement with your employer or insurance provider regarding your claim. Your employer or insurance company may oppose your claim, and it would not be wise to rely on them to prioritize your interests. Lawyers can help you navigate the claim or appeal process and enhance your likelihood of achieving a favorable outcome.

• Can an employee expect alternative work options if they sustain an injury while on the job in Lansing?

  In case of a workplace injury, Michigan's workers' compensation law mandates employers to inform employees about modified or alternative work availability. However, the employer is not obligated to offer a job to the injured employee. It's common for workers to be unable to carry out their previous job duties after being hurt. If you're facing this predicament, seeking the assistance of an attorney in Lansing can be helpful in bargaining with your employer to explore if any alternate jobs are available.

• What expenses are covered under workers' compensation in Lansing?

  Workers' compensation covers medical costs, which includes hospital visits, treatment, and medication required for your injury in Lansing. Additionally, weekly payments for wage loss while you cannot work are provided. Workers' compensation may also cover additional expenses, such as travel expenses related to medical appointments, and vocational rehabilitation, such as job training and placement assistance to help you return to work. Consulting with an experienced attorney is essential to understand the full range of expenses covered under workers' compensation.

• 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.