Michigan workers’ comp lawyer explains how to protect legal rights after a neck injury.
Getting hurt on-the-job can be a life changing event. This is especially true for people who have a neck injury. It can result in work restrictions and significant medical bills. Chronic pain can also interfere with the ability live a normal life. Here is some information about neck injury workers’ comp settlement that everyone should know.
Injuries to the neck are common in the workplace. They can occur from car accidents, lifting items, repetitive movements, being struck, bending and twisting, or a variety of other accidents. Treatment usually consists of physical therapy, prescription medications, injections, and surgery.
These work-related injury claims are often disputed for many reasons. Insurance companies understand the potential for lifetime payments, and they do not want to accept the cost.
Reasons why these injuries are disputed
Insurance companies think of degenerative disc disease as a magic bullet to dispute payment of a neck injury workers’ comp settlement. This is usually found after the independent medical examination (IME) has been completed. Unfortunately, these doctors are not truly “independent” and make careers out of testifying against disabled employees. A disabled employee cannot refuse to attend the IME because it will result in an automatic suspension of workers’ comp benefits.
Insurance companies tell people that neck pain is just part of the aging process. We recommend getting a second opinion from a doctor who is trusted whenever there is a dispute for this injury claim. This is especially true if diagnosed with a herniated disc, slipped disc, disc protrusion, pinched nerve, or radiculopathy.
These injuries are sometimes difficult to diagnose and treat. It is hard to pinpoint the exact source of pain and even more difficult to prove that it was caused solely by a work-related event. Almost everyone develops degenerative disc disease in their spine as they get older. This fact does not mean that a person is not suffering from a legitimate neck injury workers’ comp. Watch out for new symptoms like increased pain or numbness down an arm.
Average workers’ comp settlement for neck injury
Statistics published by the Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency show the average settlement amount in Michigan was just $58,641.58 in 2019. Many people receive more than average when evidence shows permanent work restrictions and lifetime medical needs. Watch out for low settlement offers for a workers’ comp neck injury.
Medical evidence from your doctor can be used to argue for a larger settlement. Establish that a change of pathology occurred even when there is evidence of preexisting degenerative disc disease. A treating doctor can also give an opinion about work restrictions.
Insurance companies do not want to overpay, and they know value of workers’ comp claims. An experienced lawyer can ensure that a fair is paid for a neck injury workers’ comp settlement. Attorney fees are easily made up through a larger settlement offer.
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 35 years. Call (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
How Much Does An MRI Cost In Michigan: What You Need To Know