Michigan lawyer explains how some police officers have special rights after getting hurt on-the-job and can select workers’ comp benefits or “like benefits” through a disability pension scheme.
We have represented many police officers over the last 25+ years. They are some of the hardest working people and sitting around the house is not their preferred option. Our experience has been they go to work hurt and only stop when they physically or mentally cannot perform job duties. Here is some information about Michigan workers’ comp benefits that every police officer should know.
Michigan law protects law enforcement who are hurt in the course and scope of employment. It does not matter if they are chasing a suspect or just filing routine paperwork when it happens. Available Michigan workers’ comp benefits for police officers include money for lost wages, medical care, and vocational rehabilitation.
Unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in the number of individuals who have their work injury benefits disputed. They also have problems with their departments not honoring work restrictions or authorizing needed medical treatment.
Municipalities and villages do not always do right by their law enforcement officers. It is common to see third-party administrators calling the shots and finding ways to dispute workers’ comp benefits. It can be tempting to give up and just accept whatever money is offered.
Police workers’ comp benefits
Cops who cannot work because of an on-the-job injury are entitled to lost wages. The amount paid in Michigan under the workers’ comp law should equal 80% of their after-tax average weekly wage subject to a state-wide maximum. This calculation should include money for overtime, discontinued fringe benefits, and even second jobs.
Medical treatment should also be covered 100% without any copayments or deductibles being owed. This is an unlimited benefit, and the work injury insurance system should pay for life.
Some police officers suffer career ending injuries. It is not easy switching to a new job and vocational rehabilitation can make the process easier. This money can be used for education and/or re-training.
Like benefits instead of police workers’ comp benefits
Some municipalities and villages give police officers and law enforcement more benefits than workers’ comp benefits pays. This could come in the form of 100% salary continuation or through a duty disability pension.
Law enforcement is allowed to opt out of the workeman’s comp system and accept “like benefits.” This only applies to officers who are employed by municipalities and villages who offer it. This means they give up their workers’ comp benefits in exchange for a duty disability pension. It does not have to be identical in value to qualify.
For police officers, figuring out whether to accept like benefits in lieu of Michigan workers’ comp can be difficult. It is important to explore all the available options before making your choice. Once an election of like benefits is made, it cannot be changed. It is also possible to get workers’ comp benefits for medical treatment not otherwise provided under a duty disability pension. Call an experienced work injury lawyer to find out the best option.
Need help? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation!
If you are a police officer who was injured on the job in Michigan and you have questions about filing a workers’ comp claim or about a settlement option, call now (855) 221-2667 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation with an experienced 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 work injury claim and settlement 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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