My Employer Refuses To File Workers’ Comp Claim: Now What?

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Employer Refuses To File Workers’ Comp Claim, Now What?

Michigan lawyer discusses options if the employer refuses to file workers’ comp claim.

Michigan adopted its first workman’s comp law in 1912. It protects employees hurt on-the-job and is considered a safety net. It was designed as a compromise between labor and business. Employees hurt on-the-job are guaranteed medical treatment and lost wages regardless of their fault. In exchange, companies are protected from civil lawsuits for their negligence. But what happens when an employer refuses to file workers’ comp claim in Michigan? Keep reading to find out about legal rights.

All private companies who have at least 1 employee working 35 hours or more per week are generally required to purchase workman’s comp insurance. Companies who fail to purchase this insurance are still responsible for payment. Officers and directors of the company can be held personally liable for payment. They can also face stiff civil and criminal penalties.

Employees must give notice of a workplace injury within 90 days from the time it occurs. Notice can be oral so just telling a manager is enough. However, it is a good idea to fill out a written accident report. This can be used as proof in the event of a dispute. Never wait until the following day to report a workplace accident because this is a red flag for companies.

Claim must be made within 2 years of the accident. It requires nothing more than asking for medical treatment or lost wages. We recommend making a claim in writing so proof exists should a dispute occur. This can be done by sending an email, text message, or letter.

Watch out for bad employers!

Unfortunately, some companies refuse to file claims to their insurance. Our experience shows that when a bad employer refuses to file a workers comp claim in Michigan it’s because they worry about higher insurance premiums or have misrepresented the nature of their businesses and don’t want to get caught. Employers who misrepresent their business commit premium fraud and could get into trouble.

Watch out for an employer who refuses to file a workers’ comp claim in Michigan but insists on paying cash for medical bills and lost wages. These promises are rarely kept and could jeopardize payment of future benefits. Other items like mileage, attendant care, and vocational rehabilitation are never paid when this happens.

Never lie to a physician or hospital about how the work accident occurred. A magistrate will review medical records and use this evidence to deny payment based upon credibility. It is a trick used by employers to avoid payment. Don’t fall into this trap!

What to do if my employer refuses to file a workers’ comp claim in Michigan?

In Michigan, if an employer refuses to file a workers’ comp claim, you can file your own claim with the Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency (WDCA). Notice will be automatically sent to the employer and its insurance company by the State of Michigan. This can be done using the Employee’s Report of Claim Form. This will ensure legal rights are protected. Hire a lawyer if payment of benefits is disputed.

An employee cannot be fired or demoted for making a claim. This could lead to a second lawsuit for wrongful termination. Make sure to speak with an experienced lawyer if this occurs.

Injured on the job in Michigan and need help? Call our work injury attorneys now!

If you were injured on the job in Michigan and you have questions on what to do when your employer refuses to file a workers’ comp claim, call now to speak with an experienced attorney, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.

Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 35 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand Michigan laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.

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:

How To File A Workers’ Comp Claim in Michigan: What You Need To Know

Author Bio Jeffrey Kaufman

Author
Jeffrey E. Kaufman
Michigan Workers Comp Attorney

Jeffrey E. Kaufman has extensive experience in workers compensation cases and has recovered millions of dollars in benefits for his clients. He believes all injured workers deserve to be on equal footing with insurance companies and employers, and fights tenaciously so their rights are secured and protected.


“Jeff also helped me with getting my Blue Cross bills paid. I would absolutely recommend him and the whole firm. Jeff and the firm did everything they were supposed to do for me and my case.”
Ricardo Perfetto

Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews

Related Blog Posts

Get Help From our Michigan Workers’ Comp Lawyers Today

You’re not alone. Our Michigan workers’ comp lawyers have been called the best in the state, and our clients love how they’re treated with care, respect, and responsiveness. We will give you the time you need, we will explain your legal rights, and we will always treat you with respect.

Our workers’ compensation and Social Security disability lawyers always put your needs first. Get to know your legal team.

Our attorneys post regularly about common issues related to workers’ comp, including common injuries, settlement calculations, laws, and more.

Injured? It’s Time to Get Some Answers

Don’t let the insurance adjuster push you around. Request your free consultation today.

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Our attorneys post regularly about common issues related to workers’ comp, including common injuries, settlement calculations, laws, and more.

Our workers’ compensation and Social Security disability lawyers always put your needs first. Get to know your legal team.