Michigan workers’ comp lawyer discusses settlement for a sprained ankle and why it is not always the best option.
Our work injury lawyers have combined experience of over seventy-five years, and we have seen it all when it comes to workplace accidents. Some clients recover quickly from a sprained ankle and get back to work after only a couple weeks. Others are disabled for much longer and require ongoing medical treatment and lost wages. A sprained ankle is one of those workplace injuries that can go either way and you just don’t know until the medical develops. It can be a minor inconvenience or result in permanent work restrictions. Here is what to know about a workers’ comp sprained ankle settlement in Michigan.
A sprained ankle occurs when ligaments stretch beyond their limits. This usually happens when the foot rolls or twists because of some workplace event. Symptoms including bruising, swelling, tenderness, pain, and instability. Walking or standing for long periods of time can become difficult and interfere with essential job duties. Surgery may be required if a tear is found to be severe.
Many of our clients get workers’ comp benefits and there is no dispute. We only get involved to make sure they don’t get into trouble. For example, refusing a light duty job offer without good cause can result in a forfeiture of lost wages. Additionally, failing to show up for an independent medical examination (IME) could jeopardize entitlement to future medical treatment. Some injured Michigan employees ask for a workers’ comp sprained ankle settlement not realizing they would have to resign their employment to get any money.
When is a settlement a good option?
A workers’ comp settlement for a sprained ankle makes sense when medical treatment is stable and keeping the job is not a concern. It is tax free money that can be used for any purpose including paying off debt or finding a new job.
Settlement is not a good option when a person continues working and does not want to give up his or her job. This is especially true when the amount awarded does not add up to much money.
What if my Michigan workers’ comp sprained ankle claim and settlement is disputed?
We also represent people who have found their workers’ comp sprained ankle claim and settlement disputed. Many of these cases are resolved through a compromised voluntary payment. This is not a settlement, and the client does not give up his or her job. It only resolves unpaid medical bills and lost wages up to current. If an employee must stop working again, the claim can be re-opened.
Employees who find themselves unable to return to their jobs can also choose to settle their claim. This is when a lump sum payment is made, and all future workers’ comp benefits are given up. It only makes financial sense when the medical and vocational evidence shows ongoing ankle problems and disability.
Insurance companies pay amounts based upon potential exposure. This is the amount of money they anticipate having to pay for medical treatment and lost wages. We never recommend giving up a job for a small amount of money unless there is a good reason. It is important to have a lawyer who can make sure legal rights are protected whenever a claim has been disputed.
Did you suffer a sprained ankle on the job in Michigan and you think you have a workers’ comp case and need help with a settlement claim? Contact our attorneys for a free consultation!
If you suffered a sprained ankle on the job in Michigan and you think you have a workers’ comp case and you need help with a settlement claim, 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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