Michigan workers’ comp lawyer discusses the most common knee injury at work and how to get the best possible torn meniscus workers’ comp settlement.
Our law firm has represented thousands of clients and recovered millions of dollars in workers’ comp benefits. We have the experience and know-how to win a torn meniscus workers’ comp settlement in Michigan.
A meniscus tear in the knee is a common workplace injury that can lead an employee down a path where they are forced to undergo knee replacement surgery. Here is some information about legal rights and how to get the best possible torn meniscus workers’ comp settlement.
Employees who suffer knee injuries at work are often denied workers’ comp benefits. These types of injuries usually occur when an employee suddenly twists or rotates their knee. Activities such as kneeling, pivoting, squatting, lifting, or sudden stops can also cause injury.
Insurance companies frequently dispute these workers’ comp claims because of incidental findings of arthritis. Almost everyone has some arthritis, and it does not mean that a knee injury did not occur. Watch out for insurance company doctors who say problems are degenerative and just caused by the aging process.
Pay attention to increased pain symptoms, swelling, and stiffness. Be sure to report any knee injury when it happens. Ask for workers’ comp benefits if medical treatment is needed or time away from the job will be required.
Available workers’ comp benefits
Employees who are hurt on-the-job are entitled to get all medical bills paid under workers’ comp. This includes emergency room visits, medications, crutches, doctor appointments, and surgery. There should never be any copays, deductibles, or out-of-pockets that are owed. Medical care should be covered for life regardless of employment status.
Employees who are unable to work should also be paid wage loss benefits. This is based upon the highest 39 paid weeks during the 52 weeks before injury. Weekly checks equal 80% of the after-tax value of average weekly wage. Payments are income tax free.
What is the average torn meniscus workers’ comp settlement in Michigan?
In Michigan, there isn’t a specified average amount for a workers’ comp settlement for a torn meniscus. The statistics published by the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency shows the average payout amount in Michigan for 2022 was just $62,315.56. Many people receive more than average when evidence shows permanent restrictions and lifetime medical care.
The settlement amount awarded will depend on several important factors. This includes future medical treatment and whether work restrictions are permanent. Settlements are based upon insurance company exposure and how much could be paid out in the future.
Our experience shows that employers do not want to bring people back to work after a serious knee injury. Insurance companies also get tired of paying weekly benefits. This combination results in aggressive return to work programs that might not be in a disabled employees’ best interests. It is possible to short-circuit this process and trade workers’ comp benefits for a lump sum cash payment.
Insurance companies will typically pay several years of workers’ comp payments in cash. Medical evidence needs to show continuing problems and disability. We recommend speaking with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer to help maximize settlement value.
Have questions about a workers’ comp torn meniscus settlement? Call our lawyers now for a free consultation!
If you suffered a torn meniscus on the job in Michigan and have questions about a workers’ comp settlement, call now to speak with an experienced attorney, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 40 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand Michigan laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job. 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.
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 (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.
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