Michigan lawyer explains how a workers’ comp claim might impact future employment prospects and why honesty is usually the best policy.
Michigan law protects employees who are hurt on-the-job. It covers medical, a percentage of lost wages, and vocational rehabilitation. Many people collect workers’ comp benefits and quickly return to their jobs. We consider these individuals a success because getting back to work should always be the primary goal. Unfortunately, some cannot return to their jobs and must transition to something new. Many opt to settle their workers comp claims for a lump sum payment and move on. This raises the question: Does workers’ comp affect future employment prospects in Michigan? Keep reading to find out some answers and why honesty is usually the best policy.
Workers’ comp claims can affect future employment because they are public records in Michigan
Workers’ comp claims can affect future employment in Michigan as state law permits employers, insurance companies, and other interested parties to request information about claims. This is usually done through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Additionally, insurers routinely track and share information about their policyholders through searchable databases and this information can be purchased. It is a good idea to assume that any past claims will be discovered by a new employer so being honest is a good strategy.
Discrimination against employees who make work injury claims
Discrimination against employees who make a workers’ comp claim can affect future employment. Most discrimination against people stems from misconceptions about the workers’ comp system. It is not welfare or some free handout. It is a safety net for people hurt on-the-job and it comes with strings attached. Workers’ comp benefits are extremely limited, and nobody gets rich from sitting at home. Insurance companies make things worse by publicizing that all disabled employees are frauds who just want a free lunch. The truth is that fraud is very low in the workers’ comp system and most people just want to get back to their jobs.
Why honesty about past is the best policy when looking for a new job
When it comes to how a workers’ comp claim can affect future employment, our experience shows that honesty is the best policy. Employers just want to know that a new hire can physically and mentally perform the job. They make hiring decisions based upon work experience, skills, and needs of their business. Most employers will not care if someone had a prior workers’ comp claim and settlement. Most do not care about restrictions if the work can be done. But they do care if a person lies on a job application or during an interview.
Injured on the job and wondering how your workers’ comp claim can affect future employment? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation.
If you were injured on the job in Michigan have questions on how workers’ comp can affect future employment, 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.
Related information:
What To Expect At A Workers’ Comp Hearing In Michigan: Here’s What To Know
