My work comp case is settled! Now what?

Michigan workers compensation settlement attorney offers suggestions for after your case.

We have blogged in the past about the pros and cons of settlement. This is usually the hardest decision to make in a workers compensation case. A good lawyer will make recommendations but the decision is always up to you.

A workers compensation settlement includes money for lost wages, medical treatment, and vocational rehabilitation. You will be responsible for your disability once the case is settled.

Many of our clients are happy to have the insurance company off their back. However, we suggest a plan for the future before your case is settled.

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Workplace deaths in Michigan

Work accident lawyer discusses MIOSHA fatality data for first six months of 2013 and provides information about workers compensation benefits.

Data from the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) shows seventeen workplace fatalities so far in 2013. Falls were the leading cause with six deaths and crush injures represent another five. The full table can be found here.

Nothing compares to the loss of a family member after a workplace death. This type of tragedy can destroy a family both emotionally and financially. Children grow up without a parent and the surviving spouse can be overwhelmed.

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Workers comp settlement amounts in Michigan

Frequently asked questions regarding workers comp settlements and how to calculate a fair amount.

Many claims for workers comp are eventually settled. Insurance companies want to close files and end their liability.

Even claims that are disputed can be settled. The threat of trial provides a powerful incentive for both sides to resolve their differences with a lump sum cash payment.

An experienced workers comp lawyer can negotiate a better settlement for your claim. The attorney fee is only 10% if benefits are currently being paid.

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Penalties for late workers comp checks in Michigan

Michigan workers comp lawyer explains penalty rules and how much you can collect from the insurance company.

I have written in the past about how devastating a work injury can be for a family. This is especially true when the primary wage earner is disabled.

Wage loss benefits are supposed to start on the 8th day of disability. The first check should be received approximately a week later. Missing or late checks can be a disaster.

Unfortunately, it can take some insurance companies weeks or months to process a claim. This can be delayed even more if the employer refuses to cooperate.

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Actor Jim Carrey Has Workers Comp Troubles

Workers comp insurance is no laughing matter and how employees can protect their legal rights.

TMZ has reported that Jim Carry was fined $72,000 by the State of New York for not having workers comp insurance for his art studio in 2012. A rep for Carrey tells TMZ: “This is a clerical error on their part and will be cleared up immediately.”

This goes to show you that even rich people sometimes have issues with workers comp insurance. It should also serve as a warning about employers who fail to comply with state workers comp laws.

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When will I get my first workers comp check in Michigan?

Michigan workers comp lawyer discuses the 2012 Pay Lag Report and what you can do if your check is late or missing.

One of the most important benefits under workers comp is lost wages. Employees hurt on-the-job should receive 80% of their after-tax average weekly wage if they cannot work. Weekly payments will continue until disability ends.

Late or missing checks are a major concern. Most people need this regular income to support themselves and their families. Even one missing check could be financially devastating if a person lives paycheck to paycheck. So when will I get my first workers comp check?

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Updated List Of Hearing Sites In Metro Detroit

Workers compensation attorney provides telephone numbers and addresses for hearing sites in Metro Detroit.

We are frequently asked where workers compensation cases take place. These types of actions are administrative and not heard at your local courthouse. Magistrates are placed at various hearing sites around the state.

The county of injury determines where a workers compensation case will take place. It does not matter where the parties live or if the location is too far away.

We have seen some changes in Agency locations recently. Here is an updated list of telephone numbers and addresses for hearing sites in Metro Detroit.

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Worst Insurance Companies In Michigan List – 2012 Edition

Michigan workers compensation lawyer explains the 2012 Notice of Dispute Report and lists the insurance companies with the highest percentage of disputed claims.

It’s that time of year again to select our list of Michigan’s worst insurance companies for workers compensation. We make this determination based upon the percentage of claims that are voluntarily paid and then disputed.

The data is gathered from the 2012 Notice of Dispute Report published by the State of Michigan. The average for all insurance companies is 8.9% for 2012.

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Sciatica: It’s a real pain in the buttocks

Michigan attorney discusses sciatica and how to claim workers comp benefits.

Our attorneys have handled thousands of workers comp cases throughout Michigan. We have combined experience of over 100 years and have seen all types of workplace accidents. The most common involve injury to the lower back with nerve pain.

It is sometimes difficult to pinpoint the reason for back pain and even harder to prove that a work injury is the sole cause. Many people have pre-existing degenerative disc disease or stenosis. Insurance companies use this fact to unfairly dispute claims.

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South Korean Court Rules Against Job Inheritance

Fascinating news article from South Korea illustrates the differences between workers compensation systems around the globe and in Michigan.

The Korea Times reports on a case involving job inheritance at Hyundai Motor after a workplace death. Apparently, a collective bargaining agreement has a provision that promises to hire a family member of an employee who dies in an industrial accident.

Family members of a deceased worker demanded that Hyundai Motor hire one of the children in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement. The company refused and the matter went to court.

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