Michigan workers’ comp lawyer discusses what employees should do when they suffer a knee injury.
Getting hurt on-the-job can turn your life upside down. This is especially true if a person cannot stand or walk for long periods of time. Many of our clients find themselves unable to perform the physical requirements of their jobs. Knee injuries are some of the most common types of workplace accidents. Below is some information and answers to questions if you or a loved one hurt their knee at work in Michigan.
Michigan Workers’ Comp Law
Michigan law protects employees who are injured in the workplace. It does not matter who was at fault just that the accident occurred in the course and scope of employment. Workers’ comp pays for medical treatment and a percentage of lost wages. But there are some steps that have to be taken.
I hurt my knee at work, what should I do?
In Michigan, if you hurt your knee at work, we tell our clients to report the workplace injury within 90 days. They should also make a claim for benefits within 2 years. Both notice and claim can be oral so just telling a manager is enough. Follow-up with a doctor and explain how the workplace accident happened.
Types of knee injuries
If you hurt your knee at work in Michigan, it is critical to follow-up with your doctor. Medical history is key so make sure to explain how the accident occurred and what you were doing at the time. Get a diagnosis and treatment plan. Next steps are determined based upon type and severity of injury.
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can be torn from activities that require a sudden change in direction. Surgery is usually required to improve stability and repair the damage.
The meniscus is tough and rubbery cartilage that acts as a shock absorber in the knee. It can be torn from twisting motions while bearing weight.
Inflammation can also affect various structures in the knee. Diagnoses include bursitis and tendinitis. These types of problems can interfere with normal movement of the joint.
The kneecap can also be dislocated from trauma. Pain and swelling are common symptoms.
Sometimes a loose body such as a piece of cartilage or bone can break off. This creates a problem when interference occurs with operation of the knee joint.
What are my available workers’ comp benefits if I hurt my knee at work in Michigan?
All reasonable and necessary medical treatment should be fully covered. This includes ambulance runs, emergency room visits, doctor appointments, prescriptions, physical therapy, injections, medical equipment, and surgery. There are no deductibles or copayments owed under workers’ comp.
Employees who are unable to perform their job get lost wages. The amount paid should equal 80% of a person’s after-tax average weekly wage. This includes money for overtime, discontinued fringe benefits, and even second jobs. Payments continue for the length of disability.
Many of our Michigan clients who hurt their knee at work want to settle their workers’ comp claims and move on with their lives. This is when an insurance company makes a lump sum payment instead of paying benefits. Watch out for insurance companies who make low-ball settlement offers thinking a person does not understand their legal rights.
Did you hurt your knee at work in Michigan and need help with your workers’ comp claim? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation!
If you hurt your knee at work while on the job in Michigan and you have questions or need help with your workers’ comp 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.
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