Michigan lawyer explains if you can return to work after workers’ comp settlement and how to make sure maximum dollars are paid.
A lump sum cash payout is an attractive option for many people who are on workman’s compensation. It allows them freedom to get medical treatment and vocational rehabilitation on their own terms. Money can be used for anything including finding a new job or starting a business. Some individuals have no choice but to settle their case because of financial problems. One question that arises from some of our clients is if they they can return to work after a workers’ comp settlement in Michigan . The answer is yes, but what people need to understand is that timing is everything when it comes to getting paid a fair amount.
Critical factors that determine payout amounts
We tell our clients that the value of your case breaks down into two critical factors. The first is medical treatment and how much treatment needs to be paid in the future. The second is lost wages and how long a person will be disabled from working. Insurance companies use these factors to determine how much should be paid for a claim. They know value of claims and do not want to overpay. A good lawyer can help develop the medical and vocational evidence so that maximize dollars are paid. Returning to work and impact the amount awarded.
Can I return to work after a workers’ comp settlement?
Yes you can return to work after a workers’ comp settlement in Michigan, but usually not for the employer where the workplace accident occurred. Insurance companies require as a condition of settlement that a person resign their job and not seek future re-employment. This is to ensure that a person does not come back to work for one hour and then make a brand new claim for workman’s compensation benefits. We don’t recommend violating this agreement because the insurance company could have cause to get their money back.
What if an employer changes their insurance company during my case?
Sometimes an employer does not have the same insurance carrier at the time of settlement. Determining if you can return to work after a workers’ comp settlement in Michigan under these circumstances will be up to the employer to decide. We have represented many people who continued working after payment was awarded when the insurance company is no longer on the risk. It is a win-win situation because a person keeps their job, and the insurance company settles its potential liability.
What if I find new employment before I settle my work injury claim?
Watch out for the situation where a person finds new employment and then wants to settle their workman’s compensation case. Insurance companies have very little incentive to pay maximum dollars if a person has returned to other gainful employment. Make sure you have not started a new job until after you case has been finalized.
Can I return to work after a workers’ comp settlement in Michigan if I’m in a union?
Individuals who are in a union might find some doors closed. We recommend speaking with a union representative before settling the workers’ comp case to ensure no potential conflict.
Injured while on the job in Michigan? Contact our lawyers for a free consultation
To speak with an experienced attorney about your work injury claim in Michigan, call us now, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 35 years and can help you better understand Michigan workman’s comp laws and when you can return to work after a workers’ comp settlement. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
Can You Sue Your Employer After A Workers’ Compensation Claim?
