Our law firm checklist to determine if you are getting all the Michigan workers compensation benefits that you are entitled.
We try to have face-to-face consultation with all new clients. This is important because it creates trust and confidence in your lawyer.
This meeting is also a good chance to identify potential legal issues and make sure you are getting the correct workers compensation benefits. Use our checklist below to discover additional claims.
We recommend you call a lawyer even if benefits are being paid by the insurance company. You might be surprised to learn what you are not getting.
1. Lost Wages
Wage loss benefits are provided to individuals who cannot work. The amount paid should equal 80% of your after-tax average weekly wage. Overtime pay must be included! If you are unable to perform a second job, this should also be included in the calculation.
2. Medical Treatment
Reasonable and necessary medical treatment must be paid under workers compensation. This includes prescription medications, physical therapy, hospital visits, and surgery. Many insurance companies refuse requests for braces and prosthetics for no reason. Watch out for insurance companies who will not pay for items your doctor has prescribed.
3. Mileage Reimbursement
You should get mileage reimbursement every time you visit a doctor or go for treatment. You can also have meals and hotel accommodations paid if you must travel. The mileage rate is currently set at .56 cents per mile.
4. Attendant Care
Family members can earn up to 56 hours per week just for helping you with activities of daily living. They should be paid market rates or what a professional would charge.
5. Home and Vehicle Modifications
Some individuals need home and vehicle modifications. We had one insurance company offer to buy a client a new house because it was cheaper than modifying his own property.
6. Vocational Rehabilitation
Some of our clients need help with retraining or finding a new job. We have successfully recovered cash benefits for our clients so they could go to college. Watch out for insurance companies that schedule wage earning assessments with vocational counselors. This is not for your advantage and will be used to cut wage loss benefits.
To speak with one of our workers compensation lawyers in Michigan, call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation. There is no fee unless you are successful with your case.
– 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 evaluate a case.
Related information:
VIDEO: What employers aren’t telling you about your Michigan workers compensation benefits
– Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by Horia Varlan.