Workers’ comp lawyer discusses settlement after a return to work in Michigan.
Many of our clients want to know about settlement. A lump sum payout is an attractive option for individuals who want to finish medical treatment and vocational rehabilitation on their own terms. When clients ask: Can I get a settlement from workers’ comp if I go back to work in Michigan? We tell them the answer is ‘yes,’ under the right circumstances.
Future workers’ comp benefits can be traded for a lump sum payment. This money can be used for any purpose including medical treatment, vocational retraining, higher education, paying off debt, and retirement. But not everyone is going to qualify for a settlement. Keep reading to find out why timing is everything.
Can I get a settlement from workers’ comp if I go back to work in Michigan for my current employer?
Most people who get hurt eventually return to their jobs. If medical bills and lost wages have been covered, there are no additional workers’ comp benefits owed. The insurance company is not responsible to pay additional money, so they have no incentive to pay a settlement.
If an employee returns to work under restrictions but might lose his or her job in the future, there is a possibility of future workers’ comp wage loss benefits and could affect a settlement amount. The same is true if additional medical treatment might be needed. This is usually enough incentive for an insurance company to pay a settlement if a person wants to give up the job.
An employee might be asked to resign his or her current employment while working under restrictions. Sometimes the insurance company goes “off the risk” and no longer insures the employer. These scenarios can also lead to a settlement.
A Voluntary Payment Agreement can also be negotiated instead of a settlement. Money will be paid for disputed medical bills and lost wages. An employee does not give up his or her job and can seek additional benefits in the future.
Can I get a settlement if I work for a new employer?
Our experience shows that employers get rid of people who are hurt on-the-job. This is especially true if restrictions are going to keep a person from returning to their specific position. Michigan law does not guarantee employment, but it does provide for workers’ comp benefits.
Can I get a settlement from workers’ comp if I go back to work in Michigan for a new employer? Our position would be that this situation is ripe for settlement because there is nothing to lose. A person does not have to give up their new job in order to get a settlement from workers’ comp.
How much is paid for settlement is going to depend upon insurance company exposure. They look at future medical costs and potential wage loss benefits. Therefore, a settlement will be much less if someone goes back to work for a new employer. The weekly comp rate will be much lower or maybe even reduced to $0.00.
It is important to speak with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer before returning to work in Michigan to ensure the highest settlement amount is paid. Timing is everything so settle your case before you return to gainful employment.
Injured on the job and wondering if you can get a workers’ comp settlement if you go back to work? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation!
If you or a loved one was injured on the job in Michigan you are wondering if you can get a workers’ comp settlement if you go back to work, call now (855) 221-2667 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer. 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 Michigan workers’ comp 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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