Michigan lawyer discusses if workers’ comp claims show up on background checks when looking for new employment.
Many of our clients get new jobs after their work injury case has been settled. We consider these individuals a success because getting back to work should always be the primary goal. It brings us satisfaction when they get enough money from a settlement to get back on their feet and transition to a new career. But sometimes our clients ask: Does a workers’ comp claim show up on background checks?
Many people worry about discrimination due to prior claims and how it can impact career prospects. Most discrimination against people collecting workers’ comp benefits comes from misconceptions about the system. It is not welfare or some handout. It is a safety net for people hurt on-the-job. Insurance companies make things worse by broadcasting that all disabled employees are frauds and just want a free lunch. The truth is that fraud is very low in the system and most people just want to get better.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests
Michigan law permits employers, insurance companies, and other interested parties to request information about work injury claims. Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency files are generally open to the public for review and copying under the Freedom of Information Act. This includes claim information and settlements. We have had many cases where defense attorneys found out about past workers’ comp claims and settlements before our clients even told us. It is a good idea to assume that workers’ comp claims will show up on background checks and be discovered.
Searchable databases will show workers’ comp claims for background checks
National databases will show workers’ comp claims for background checks. Insurers routinely track and share information about their policyholders through searchable databases and this information can be purchased.
Insurance Services Office (ISO) is a company that keeps a database of work injury claims. Employers just need a name and date of birth to do a claim search. Insurers routinely use this database to catch people who lie about past workplace accidents. Some other databases include Cleveland Index, Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE), and Automated Property Loss Underwriting System (A-PLUS).
We think honesty is the best policy
Our experience is that honesty is the best policy. New employers just want to know that a new hire can physically and mentally perform the job. They will make a hiring decision based upon past work experience, transferable skills, and needs of their organization. Most employers will not care if someone had a prior work injury claim. But they do care if a person lies on a job application or during an interview.
Are you wondering if your Michigan workers’ comp claim will show up on background checks causing employers to treat you unfairly? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation!
If you were injured on the job in Michigan and you are wondering if your workers’ comp claim will show up on a background check or feel like you are being treated unfairly because of your claim, 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 on the job 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 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.
Related information:
Employee Misclassification And Michigan Workers’ Comp: What You Need To Know
