Metro Detroit workers comp lawyer explains what happens when a work injury prevents you from doing a second job.
Many people in Metro Detroit are still having trouble finding a good paying job. We frequently see individuals who work two or more jobs just to make ends meet.
A work injury can be devastating if it prevents you from earning a living. This is especially true if you are the primary wage earner in the family. Here is some information about your workers comp rights.
Workers comp and lost wages
You are entitled to be paid lost wages for as long as you are disabled and cannot work. Your lost wages are based upon your average weekly wage.
You can calculate your average weekly wage by taking the highest 39 weeks of the 52 weeks before your injury. Your workers comp rate will be approximately 80% of your after-tax average weekly wage.
Insurance companies often fail to include overtime pay, fringe benefits, and bonuses in your average weekly wage. This means that you are not getting paid what the law requires.
What about a second job and workers comp
If you were working a second job then you can get even more wage loss benefits. Insurance companies will never tell you about that.
Your average weekly wage will be based upon the total wages from both jobs. This could substantially increase the amount of lost wages that you receive because of a work injury.
Your employer or its insurance carrier can be reimbursed by the Second Injury Fund under certain circumstances.
Insurance company dirty tricks
Insurance companies will dispute paying additional wage loss benefits. They will tell you that your second job does not count or argue with you about how much it paid.
Find an experienced workers comp lawyer who knows the law. Even if you are receiving workers comp benefits, it is a good idea to have your situation evaluated.
To speak with one of our workers comp lawyers, call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation. There is no fee unless additional workers comp benefits are recovered for you.
– Alex Berman is the founder of the law firm. Hes been representing injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Alex has helped countless people obtain wage loss benefits under workers compensation and never charges a fee to evaluate a case.
Related information:
Video: Injured at work? Advice from a Michigan workers comp lawyer
Your work comp rights in Michigan
Workers comp benefits been denied or terminated
