Michigan workers’ comp lawyer discusses lowball insurance settlement offer and how to maximize the value of a claim.
We frequently get telephone calls and emails from individuals who are looking to settle their workers’ comp claims. Many of them have significant disability and are getting workers’ comp benefits on a voluntary pay basis. The insurance company knows it’s on the hook and wants to close out the claim. Here is how to deal with a lowball insurance settlement offer from Michigan workers’ comp and why you cannot rely upon their doctor opinions.
Disabled employees are permitted to trade workers’ comp benefits for a lump sum payment. This is called a redemption and it can occur any time after 6 months from the date of injury. A lump sum payment is an attractive option for many people because it allows them freedom to do medical treatment and vocational rehabilitation on their own terms. Money from a settled work injury claim can be used for any purpose including medical care, vocational rehabilitation, job-search efforts, starting a business, paying off debt, purchasing a home, or retirement.
Insurance companies understand the value of work injury claims and they fight dirty
Insurance companies understand the value of work injury claims and they never want to overpay. They are notorious for making a Michigan workers' comp lowball insurance settlement offer based upon their own interpretation of the medical and vocational evidence. Many people accept these insufficient payout amounts because they are desperate for money or do not understand their legal rights.
Insurance companies pay based upon their potential exposure. This is how much money will need to be paid for medical treatment and wage loss. We tell our clients that a good lump sum payment should pay enough to cover future medical expenses and several years of wage loss benefits. Please remember that every claim is unique, and it is best to speak with an attorney about your own individual situation.
Have a doctor on your side who supports disability
It is critical to have a doctor on your side who supports the workers’ comp claim. Evidence is needed to establish the need for medical treatment and disability. This can make or break the value of your case. Watch out for Michigan workers' comp lowball insurance settlement offers that are based upon so-called “independent” medical examinations. These doctors are handpicked by insurance companies and frequently testify against disabled employees.
How to recognize a lowball insurance settlement offer from Michigan workers' comp
Michigan workers’ comp insurers sometimes offer lowball insurance settlements that are less than what you may deserve. Here are common signs of an inadequate payout amount:
- The amount doesn’t cover your medical expenses related to your workplace injury.
- It ignores future medical care or treatment you may need.
- Lost wages or disability payments are undervalued or missing entirely.
- The offer comes very quickly after your claim is filed, before your injury is fully evaluated.
- There’s pressure to accept the offer immediately without time to review or consult an attorney.
- The agreement language is overly broad, potentially limiting your rights to future claims.
If you notice these red flags, it’s wise to consult a Michigan workers’ compensation attorney before accepting any payout amount. An experienced lawyer can help you negotiate a fair offer that truly reflects your damages.
What to do if you receive a lowball workers' comp insurance settlement offer in Michigan?
If you receive a lowball settlement insurance offer from Michigan workers' comp that doesn’t fairly cover your medical bills, lost wages, or ongoing care, don’t rush to accept it. Here are steps to protect your rights:
- Carefully review the offer — Understand exactly what benefits are included and what you might be giving up.
- Consult an experienced attorney — An experienced lawyer can evaluate the offer, negotiate on your behalf, and help you pursue a fair payout amount.
- Gather documentation — Collect all medical records, wage statements, and accident reports that show the true extent of your injury and losses.
- Don’t sign anything immediately — Take the time you need to fully understand the offer and your options.
- Consider negotiating — You have the right to ask for more compensation if the initial offer is insufficient.
Remember, a quick or low offer is often a tactic to close claims cheaply. Getting legal advice can help you avoid settling for less than you deserve.
How to avoid a lowball insurance settlement offers from Michigan workers' comp
To avoid lowball insurance settlement offers from Michigan workers’ comp we recommend hiring an experienced attorney to negotiate from the very start. Insurance companies rarely take people seriously unless they are represented by counsel. This will ensure legal rights are protected and the highest payout amount is obtained. Many of our clients get years of wage loss benefits paid up front and then return to work somewhere else. Attorney fees are a small percentage of what is recovered and there is no charge unless a payout is obtained.
Injured at on-the-job? Contact our workers’ comp lawyers for a free consultation
If you were injured on the job in Michigan and you have recieved a lowball insurance settlement offer, call now (844) 580-0920 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 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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