Work-related injuries and deaths are an unfortunate recurring aspect of work-life in Michigan. In 2019, 228 people died at work in Michigan, and in 2018, the state reported over 100,000 injuries or illnesses. Workplace injuries are common, but further compensation is not pursued as often as it should be.
If you need legal assistance filing a claim regarding a workplace injury, contact Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C. Our practice areas include personal injury, product liability, and workplace injury, and our extensive lawyer’s directory is ready to serve west and east Lansing.
Before seeking out a lawyer, you should always apply for workers’ compensation. In Michigan, benefits can be received if you file within two years of the injury and report the injury to an employer within 90 days. Coverage includes all medical expenses and 80% of after-tax wages.
One important thing to note is that these benefits typically halt when you return to work. Though you may feel compelled to return and start dealing with all the tasks that have piled up, it’s essential to listen to your doctor’s advice. Only go back to work when your medical professional gives you the okay so that you can avoid reinjury and further time off. Remember, benefits will continue to pay out as long as you have a medical reason for staying at home, so there’s no pressure to jump back in right away. Most critically, your employer cannot force you to return to work until you’re ready.
Suppose you’ve decided that workers’ comp isn’t sufficient, or you need help navigating the tricky world of insurance companies. In that case, it’s time to reach out to a personal injury lawyer or workers compensation attorney in Lansing, Michigan. Here’s what to expect at your legal consultation.
The primary thing you’ll be doing is discussing the details of your case. This can cover who was involved, what exactly happened, and the timeline of the injury. You may also need to cover medical treatment you’re receiving.
After the details have been ironed out, the lawyer will explain your legal rights and talk you through what steps are necessary, how things could play out, and generally what your options are.
From there, responsibilities need to be assigned. The attorney you meet with will tell you what you need to do if you decide to proceed further with the case. This might include seeing your doctor or gathering specific types of evidence.
Once that’s all done, you now have the floor to ask questions. Whether you brought a list of questions or are coming up with them on the spot, now is the time to clarify parts of the legal process you’re confused about.
It’s possible to get compensated for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical bills. Let our Lansing, MI law firm, Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., help you build your case. Our personal injury attorneys can offer free legal advice at your initial consultation. Call us now at 866-MICH-LAW or reach out through our online contact form.