Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Waterford

FAQs

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

  Call the Waterford Police Department at 248-674-0351.

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

  Get your incident reports in person from the Police Records Bureau at 5150 Civic Center Drive in Waterford. Prior to your visit, complete the Police FOIA Request form and send it to PDFOIARequest@waterfordmi.gov. For more information, contact the Records Bureau at 248-674-0351 and press 4.

• Can a lump sum settlement be beneficial in a workers' compensation case in Waterford?

  If you want to avoid the stress of a Waterford court hearing and get a settlement right away, a lump sum settlement may be for you. It also assists you in avoiding additional issues such as delays, which can occur with installment payments. A lump sum payment, on the other hand, may be unfavorable if your injury is serious or develops unexpected complications. You can no longer obtain extended benefits for medical complications under this type of payment arrangement.

• Should you follow the recommendations of the insurance company's doctor in your Waterford work-related injury case?

  There is no requirement that you follow the recommendations of the insurance company's doctor. However, this may cause problems with your benefits, such as payment suspension. Meanwhile, obtain a copy of the Independent Medical Examination report and present it to your doctor. If your doctor agrees with the IME report, you may continue to follow the recommendations. If your doctor disagrees, you can file a workers' compensation claim in Waterford if you are having trouble receiving your benefits.

• Can receiving workers' compensation benefits have an impact on other benefits in Waterford?

  Yes. Workers' compensation benefits in Waterford may be reduced if the employee is also entitled to pension and sick and accident benefits. The value of these additional benefits after tax usually influences the reduced amount. Social security disability benefits, on the other hand, can be reduced if the employee also receives workers' compensation, but not the other way around.

• What happens to workers' compensation benefits if the employee has two jobs in Waterford?

  The wages from both jobs will be added together to calculate the average weekly wage, which will serve as the basis for the employee's compensation in Waterford. When the job in which the employee was injured is responsible for 80% of the wages, the employer is responsible for providing all workers' compensation benefits. If it is less than 80%, the employer pays all benefits but will be reimbursed later by the other employer.

• What should an employee do if the employer fails to file a workers' compensation claim in Waterford?

  The employee in Waterford should complete the Employee's Report of Claim form, also known as the WC-117. The form can be found on the Workers' Disability Compensation Agency's website or requested by calling the agency's toll-free number at 888-396-5041 or sending an email to wcinfo@michigan.gov. The agency's Okemos office is located at 2501 Woodlake Circle. The employer and its insurer will be notified of the employee's claim once it receives and processes the completed form.

• 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.