Watch out for lowball offers on a workers’ comp settlement for a neck fusion.
We are frequently contacted by disabled employees who want to know about workers’ comp settlement for neck fusion. Michigan law allows people to trade medical and wage loss benefits for a lump sum cash payment. A lump sum of cash is an attractive option for people who want to move on with their lives. Amounts awarded for a claim can be used for medical treatment, vocational rehabilitation, finding a new job, paying off debt, starting a business, or even retirement.
Some of the more difficult on-the-job injury cases involve this surgical procedure because it can end careers. If an employee has always done heavy labor, the transition to a sedentary job can be difficult. Even activities of daily living can be much harder when someone has problems standing or walking for long periods, turning their neck, and lifting items. A workers’ comp settlement for neck fusion can make life easier.
Common injuries leading to this surgical procedure include herniated disc, spondylolisthesis, and other deformities that need to be fixed. Individuals with a neck injury can experience symptoms of pain that radiates down their arm, weakness, and headaches.
What is a neck fusion?
A neck fusion is a surgical procedure that permanently connects two or more vertebrae. Metal plates, screws, and rods may be used to hold the vertebrae together, so they can heal into one solid unit.
Unfortunately, while this medical procedure can reduce radicular symptoms (pain down the arm), it usually does not eliminate neck pain entirely. Immobilization of the spine can also place additional stress on the vertebrae above and below the fused portion causing degeneration. Insurance companies dispute degeneration saying it is just arthritis.
Many of our clients have permanent work restrictions after this surgical procedure and require lifetime medical treatment. They can have trouble with standing or sitting for long periods of time, turning their neck, and lifting items. All these activities impact ability to do work activities and put their jobs in danger. Filing for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI) is usually a next step.
Michigan workers’ comp guarantees medical treatment and lost wages on-the-job injuries. The amount paid for a workers’ comp settlement for a neck fusion depends upon several factors. Insurance companies look at medical treatment and how long a person will be disabled from employment. Age, education, and occupation play critical roles.
Watch out for insurance companies who make lowball offers on a workers’ comp settlement for a neck fusion based upon their medical and vocational experts. It is common for insurance companies to use the independent medical examination (IME) to say an employee has fully recovered or is just suffering from arthritis. Vocational counselors are hired to do labor market surveys showing other potential jobs that might be available. These biased medical and vocational reports are then used as a basis to make a lowball offer.
What is the average workers’ comp settlement for a neck fusion?
In Michigan, there isn’t a specified average workers’ comp settlement for a neck fusion. Statistics published by the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency show the average amount awarded was just $62,315.56 in 2022. Many people receive more than average when evidence shows permanent restrictions and lifetime medical needs. Watch out for lowball offers for on-the-job injuries.
Our experience shows the best way to get a fair workers’ comp settlement for a neck fusion is through preparation. Find a doctor who will listen to complaints and ask if they support your job-related injury claim. Individuals receiving job injury benefits have the right to select their own doctor after 28 days from the start of medical care. Make sure work restrictions and medical care are determined by your doctor not the insurance company. Hire an experienced attorney to fight and get the most money possible.
Injured on the job? Call our work injury lawyers now!
If you have questions about your workers’ comp settlement for a neck fusion or want a second opinion, call now to speak with an experienced work injury lawyer, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
For more than 40 years, our lawyers have been helping people like you who have suffered from work-related injuries in Michigan. We understand the physical, emotional, and psychological hardships you are experiencing from your accident. We also have the skill, experience, and know-how to protect you and get you the best possible payout amount for your case.
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.
Remember, every work injury claim is different and must be negotiated on its own merits. Do not accept any payout amount without fully understanding your legal rights.
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 40 years. Call 855-221-2667 for a free consultation today.
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