Michigan workers’ comp lawyer explains how to protect legal rights after a neck injury and get the highest settlement possible.
Getting hurt on-the-job can be a life changing event. This is especially true for people who have a neck injury. It can result in permanent work restrictions and significant medical bills. Chronic pain can also interfere with the ability live a normal life. Here is some information about a Michigan workers’ comp settlement for a neck injury that everyone should know.
Injuries to the neck are common in the workplace. They can occur from car accidents, lifting items, repetitive movements, being struck, bending and twisting, or a variety of other accidents. Treatment usually consists of physical therapy, prescription medications, injections, and surgery.
These cervical work-related injury claims are often disputed for many reasons. Insurance companies understand the potential for lifetime payments, and they do not want to accept the cost. Watch out for so-called “independent” doctors who say everything is just arthritis.
Reasons why neck injuries are disputed
Insurance companies think of degenerative disc disease as a magic bullet to dispute payment of a neck injury workers’ comp settlement. This is usually found after the independent medical examination (IME) has been completed. Unfortunately, these doctors are not truly independent and make careers out of testifying against disabled employees.
A disabled employee cannot refuse to attend the IME because it will result in an automatic suspension of workers’ comp benefits. Insurance companies tell people that neck pain is just part of the aging process. We recommend getting a second opinion from a doctor who is trusted whenever there is a dispute for this injury claim. This is especially true if diagnosed with a herniated disc, slipped disc, disc protrusion, pinched nerve, or radiculopathy.
Cervical injuries are sometimes difficult to diagnose and treat. It is hard to pinpoint the exact source of pain and even more difficult to prove that it was caused by a work-related event. Almost everyone develops degenerative disc disease in their spine as they get older. This fact does not mean that a person is not suffering from a legitimate neck injury. Watch out for new symptoms like increased pain or numbness down an arm as signs that something has changed.
What is the average workers’ comp settlement for a neck injury in Michigan?
In Michigan, there isn’t a specified average workers’ comp settlement amount for a neck injury. Statistics published by the Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency show the average redemption amount was just $62,315.56 in 2022. This is not a lot of money to cover the cost for medical treatment.
Medical evidence from your doctor can be used to argue for a larger settlement. He or she can establish that a change of pathology occurred despite evidence of preexisting arthritis. A treating doctor can also give an opinion about work restrictions. A vocational expert can be hired to show there is no work available with qualifications, training, and restrictions.
Insurance companies do not want to overpay, and they understand the value of a workers’ comp claim. An experienced Michigan workers’ comp lawyer can ensure that a fair amount is given for a neck injury settlement. Attorney fees are easily made up through a larger settlement. Get professional help and negotiate the best possible amount.
Did you or a loved one suffer a neck injury on the job in Michigan and have questions about a workers’ comp settlement? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation!
If you or a loved one suffered a neck injury at work in Michigan and you have questions about you workers’ comp settlement, 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 employees exclusively for more than 40 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
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