Workers comp lawyer discusses common workplace injuries in Michigan and why insurance companies dispute these claims.
Most people who contact our office have never had a work injury before. The workers comp system can be confusing and intimidating.
Truth is that workplace injuries are more frequent than they seem. Here are some of the common workplace injuries in Michigan.
Lifting while bending or twisting
Injury to the back or neck can be very serious. Lifting while bending or twisting can result in a herniated disc. This can result in a pinched nerve with pain, weakness, and numbness. It is very important to see a doctor if you develop these symptoms. Insurance companies typically blame degenerative changes like stenosis and ignore the injury as the cause.
Throwing or overhead work
Shoulder injuries typically occur from heavy lifting. Individuals who do throwing or overhead work are especially at risk. Many of our clients work in health care and catching a patient the wrong way can cause a torn rotator cuff or labrum tear. Watch out for insurance company doctors who say your problem was just caused by arthritis.
Losing balance and falling
The knee is especially sensitive to injury. You can tear a ligament or meniscus from a slip and fall. Many ACL tears require surgery to fix the problem. A total knee replacement can be a career ending procedure and the insurance company does not want to pay. Osteoarthritis is often used to justify the dispute of benefits.
Repetitive use
You might develop a disability in your hands, fingers, arms, or wrists that stops you from doing your job. Symptoms include burning, tingling, numbness, weakness, and pain. Common diagnoses include Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, DeQuervains Syndrome, Trigger finger, Tendonitis, or Tenosynovitis. Insurance companies typically blame other factors rather than accepting responsibility.
Amputation/Crush
Michigan law provides a specific loss benefit if a person suffers a work-related amputation. This is the minimum number of paid weeks that a person will receive regardless of whether he or she can work. Many people experience chronic pain and are given permanent restrictions. Additional wage loss benefits are available if disability continues after the specific loss period ends. Insurance companies never tell you about this fact.
To speak with one of our Michigan workers comp lawyers, call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation. There is no fee unless benefits are recovered for you.
– Alex Berman is the founder of Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers. Hes been representing injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Alex has helped countless people obtain workers comp benefits and never charges a fee to review a case.
Related information:
Workers comp pays medical for workplace injuries in Michigan
– Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by RambergMediaImages.
