Michigan workers’ comp lawyer discusses settlement after a cervical spine injury.
We know how difficult it can be for a person who is hurt on-the-job. This is especially true if restrictions prevent them from doing their job. Lifetime medical bills are a common source of worry. Chronic pain symptoms also interfere with their ability to live a normal life. Here is some information about a Michigan cervical spine injury workers’ comp settlement.
Claims for cervical spine injuries are common under workers’ compensation. They can occur from car accidents, repetitive movements, being struck by an item, bending and twisting, or a variety of other activities. Some of our clients report neck problems from constantly looking down or up in their jobs.
Common diagnoses after this type of neck injury include herniated disc, slipped disc, annular tear, pinched nerve, and radiculopathy. Treatment usually consists of physical therapy, prescription medications, injections, and surgery.
Claims for on the job injuries are often disputed by insurance companies for many reasons. They understand the potential for lifetime benefit payments, and they do not want to accept the cost. Many of our Michigan clients want a cervical spine injury workers’ comp settlement to avoid a potential cut-off.
Reasons why neck injury claims are disputed
Insurance companies think of arthritis as a magic bullet to challenge payment of workers’ comp benefits. Degeneration is found after the independent medical examination (IME) has been completed. Unfortunately, these doctors are not independent and make careers out of testifying against employees. A person cannot refuse to attend the IME because it will result in an automatic suspension of payments.
A cervical spine injury is sometimes difficult to diagnose and treat. It is hard to pinpoint the exact source of neck pain and even more difficult to prove that it was caused solely by a work-related accident. Watch out for new symptoms like increased neck pain or numbness down an arm.
Insurance companies tell people that neck pain is just part of the aging process. They argue it is nothing but degenerative disc disease. It does not matter what a treating doctor believes. Biased medical opinions should always be challenged in court.
Watch out for a low-ball cervical spine injury workers’ comp settlement offers. We recommend getting a second opinion from a doctor who is trusted whenever there is a neck injury. Almost everyone develops arthritis in their spine as they get older. This fact does not mean that a person is not suffering from a work-related injury.
What is the average cervical spine injury workers’ comp settlement in Michigan?
There isn’t a specified average workers’ comp settlement for a cervical spine injury in Michigan. Statistics published by the Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency show the average settlement amount for an on the job injury in Michigan was $62,315.56 in 2022. This is not much for a person with a lifetime disability. Many people get more when evidence shows need for work restrictions and lifetime medical benefits.
Medical evidence from a treating physician should be used to argue for a larger payout. It is critical that a change of pathology is established when there is pre existing degenerative disc disease. A treating doctor can also give an opinion about work restrictions and what types of jobs should be avoided.
Insurance companies do not want to overpay and they know the value of any settlement. An experienced lawyer can ensure that a fair amount is paid by developing medical evidence and through negotiation. Attorney fees are easily made up through a larger settlement offer.
Suffered a cervical spine injury on the job in Michigan and need help with your workers’ comp claim and settlement? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation!
If you or a loved one suffered a cervical spine injury on the job in Michigan and need help with your workers’ comp claim and settlement, 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 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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