Michigan lawyer explains how to report a work related injury and protect legal rights.
Most of our clients never imagined getting hurt on-the-job. They feel lost and confused when it comes to how to report a work related injury in Michigan. Will their boss get mad at them? Is their job at risk? Here is a quick overview of the process and what to expect at each step.
Michigan workers’ comp law is designed to protect employees who are hurt on-the-job. It pays for medical treatment and lost wages regardless of fault. In exchange, employers get protection from civil lawsuits. Workers’ comp is a type of insurance, and it is not welfare or some free ride.
Please remember that it is illegal to retaliate or otherwise discriminate against an employee who asserts his or her legal rights under workers’ comp. Watch out for employers who punish through demotion, changing hours, modifying duties, less pay, or termination. These actions can lead to a separate lawsuit for additional damages.
How long to report a work related injury?
In Michigan, you have 90 days to report a work related injury. This can be oral so simply telling a manager or supervisor that you were hurt is enough. However, it is a good idea to fill out an accident report so there is written proof. If your employer does not have a form, just make one yourself.
Never wait overnight or until the following shift to report a work related injury in Michigan as this is a red flag that employers use to dispute claims. They think everyone gets hurt at home and tries to claim workers’ comp as a free paid vacation. It is normal for people to want to wait but this is a bad idea. We think it's better to be safe than sorry so report it right away.
Make a claim for workers’ comp benefits within 2 years
Individuals who want to know how to report a work related injury in Michigan should also know about making a claim. This is required to have medical treatment or lost wages paid under workers’ comp. Claim must be made within 2 years of the workplace accident. Simply asking a manager or supervisor to see a doctor under workers’ comp is enough. However, it is a good idea to ask for medical treatment or lost wages in writing so there is no question that it was done timely. A simple email or text message should be enough.
Watch out for bad employers who refuse to accept claims because they are trying to game the workers’ comp system. They promise to pay medical bills and lost wages under the table if a person just lies about how it happened. This is a trap and can be used to dispute payment in the future.
What if the employer won't cooperate?
If you try to report a work related injury in Michigan but the employer won't cooperate you can file an Employee’s Report of Claim with the State of Michigan, and it will automatically start the process. It will be up to the insurance company to either approve or deny workers’ comp benefits.
Injured at on-the-job? Contact our workers' comp lawyers for a free consultation
If you are injured on the job in Michigan and have questions on how to report a work related injury, call now at (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 workers' comp 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 law firm has consistently secured the largest settlements in the state and is the best choice for your case. We never charge 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.
Related information:
Employee Misclassification In Michigan: What You Need To Know