Michigan workers compensation attorney lists 4 rip-offs that you should avoid.
Most people have never given much thought to workers compensation. It only becomes an issue after a serious injury at work.
Many challenges will appear during the course of your case. Here are four rip-offs that you should avoid.
Cash advance on lawsuit
We strongly discourage our clients from seeking cash advances on their workers compensation cases. Most of these “free loans” have terrible interest rates and require you to give up personal medical information. You are much better off with a settlement negotiated by your attorney. It is also possible to get an advance directly from the insurance company.
Paying medical bills out-of-pocket
Watch out for debt collectors who want you to pay medical bills out-of-pocket. These people work on commission and they do not have your best interests at heart. Medical providers are limited to a fee schedule under Michigan law. Billing extra is illegal. An experienced attorney will be able to negotiate a much better price than paying full retail.
Settling your case without a lawyer
Insurance companies offer small settlements to people who are not represented. The hope is that a person is in financial distress and will accept pennies on the dollar. Most people are not taken seriously unless represented by an experienced attorney. Knowing the value of a case will make all the difference. Attorney fees are easily made up through a larger settlement.
Mistakes can cost you
It is important to structure a workers compensation settlement with other benefits in mind. Mistakes can cost you big time. You might jeopardize entitlement to health insurance through Medicare. Social Security benefits could be offset by hundreds of thousands of dollars over your lifetime.
To speak with one of our workers compensation attorneys in Michigan, call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation. There is never a 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 compensation benefits and never charges a fee to evaluate a case.
Related information:
Warning about payday loans and lawsuit cash advances
– Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by csc1950.