If I got hurt at work will I get a settlement from workers’ comp in Michigan and how much is the average amount?
I got hurt at work, will I get a settlement from workers’ comp in Michigan? This is one of the most common questions we get from potential clients. Michigan is considered a “wage loss” state, meaning showing an injury on the job is only the first step. An employee must also prove that he or she has reduced hours or is unable to perform their job duties. There are no impairment ratings or automatic payouts like other states around the country.
Most claims are paid without dispute. Medical bills and lost wages are covered. A lump sum cash payout is not an option because there is nothing at issue. But here is the advice we give to employees who are asking “I got hurt at work, will I get a settlement from workers’ comp in Michigan” who might be entitled to additional benefits.
Michigan law guarantees payment of medical treatment and wage loss benefits. If you are wondering if you will get any compensation after being injured on the job well that depends upon how these benefits are paid out. Many people opt to accept a lump sum cash payment in lieu of getting weekly payments. This is a great option for someone who wants to move on with their life. Insurance companies are notorious for interfering with medical treatment and paying slowly. The lump sum cash payout removes the insurance company from the equation. The money awarded can also be used for any purpose including paying off debt, job retraining, starting a business, or retirement.
Another common question we get from potential client is “I got hurt at work, how much is the average settlement from workers’ comp in Michigan. The value is going to depend upon future medical needs and how long a person is expected to remain off the job. The average amount in Michigan during calendar year 2019 was just $58,641.58. This is not a lot of money for a person who could have lifetime medical bills and permeant job restrictions.
It is possible to get many years of wage loss payments upfront and then immediately return to another job. This is an indirect way of getting compensated for pain and suffering. Generally, an average case is worth between 1 and 5 years of wage loss benefits.
It’s important for injured employees to know that insurance companies are ruthless when it comes to evaluating claims for a lump sum cash payout. If you got hurt at work and wondering if you will get a settlement from workers’ comp in Michigan, well that will depend if the insurance company thinks it has some exposure. Even people with disputed claims can negotiate a settlement.
It is no secret that lawyers get more money, so get a professional involved early in the legal process. Insurance companies know that represented individuals understand their legal rights and have the means to enforce them. It is critical to develop medical and vocational evidence so that maximum dollars can be obtained.
Watch out because some insurance companies hire private investigators to follow people who mention settlement. They assume a person has fully recovered or is secretly working somewhere else. You won’t get any compensation if the insurance company thinks you are being untruthful.
If you got hurt at work and are pursuing a settlement from workers’ comp in Michigan you must remember to treat this process like any other negotiation. Expect the first offer to be low and keep trying. We have seen first offers that are just pennies on the dollar. Hire an experienced lawyer to posture the claim so the most amount of money is paid.
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 35 years. Call (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
Workers’ Comp Settlement Process: What You Need To Know
