Top 5 Common Workplace Injuries in Michigan and How To Claim Compensation
Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran
Every year, thousands of Michigan employees are injured on the job. In 2023, more than 78,900 employers reported non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses, leaving many workers facing weeks or months without a paycheck, mounting medical bills, and, in some cases, lasting mobility challenges.
Michigan’s workers’ compensation system provides benefits to cover medical treatment and partial wages, but the process isn’t always straightforward. Filing a claim can be overwhelming, especially when insurers or employers delay payments or deny claims.
At Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C., our michigan workers compensation attorneys can advocate for your rights and make sure you aren’t left struggling with unpaid wages or medical costs.
Learn the most common workplace accidents and how we can help you get the benefits you deserve.
By the Numbers: How Many Workplace Injuries in Michigan?
In 2023, Michigan reported 73,400 non-fatal workplace injuries. More than half of these cases resulted in missed work, job restrictions, or transfers, with 22,500 workers needing time off and 20,300 placed on limited duty.
Some jobs come with a much higher risk of injury. For instance, those in manufacturing, trade, transportation, and utilities accounted for half of all reported cases, even though they make up just over a third of Michigan’s workforce.
Perhaps surprisingly, education and health services had the highest injury rates, at 3.7 per 100 full-time workers, and larger companies saw more cases of missed work and job restrictions than smaller businesses.
These trends highlight the importance of workplace safety and knowing what protections are available when an injury happens.
Top 5 Most Common Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries happen every day in Michigan, affecting employees in every industry. Some are minor, while others lead to serious medical complications, time off work, or permanent disabilities. These five types of injuries are among the most common across the state:
1. Sprains, Strains, and Dislocations
Heavy lifting, repetitive motions, and sudden movements can stress muscles and joints. These injuries are prevalent in Michigan’s manufacturing and construction industries, where workers regularly handle heavy materials.
Sprains and strains can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues, while more severe cases, like dislocations, may require surgery and long recovery periods.
2. Cuts, Lacerations, and Amputations
Sharp tools, power saws, and heavy machinery contribute to many workplace injuries, particularly in automotive and industrial settings. Deep lacerations can lead to infections or nerve damage, while more serious accidents involving presses or conveyor belts can result in amputations.
In Michigan’s manufacturing sector, these injuries often mean extended recovery times, lost wages, and, in severe cases, the end of a worker’s career.
3. Fractures and Crush Injuries
Slip and fall accidents, machinery malfunctions, and vehicle-related incidents can cause broken bones or crush injuries. Warehouse workers and truck drivers often face these risks, as do those in construction, where falling debris or equipment failures can have devastating consequences.
Fractures may heal with time, but severe crush injuries can lead to permanent nerve damage and loss of function.
4. Burns and Chemical Exposure
Factory workers, welders, and healthcare professionals frequently encounter heat sources, open flames, or hazardous chemicals. Thermal burns can happen from direct contact with fire or steam, while chemical burns occur from exposure to caustic substances used in industrial and medical settings.
In Michigan, where manufacturing and chemical processing are major industries, these injuries can lead to severe pain, scarring, and long-term mobility issues.
5. Head and Brain Injuries
Falls from heights, falling objects and sudden impacts can cause concussions or more serious traumatic brain injuries. Construction workers, utility technicians, and delivery drivers are most at risk. Even a mild concussion can lead to headaches and dizziness, while severe brain injuries can result in lasting cognitive impairment.
Workers who rely on physical coordination and focus may struggle to return to their jobs, especially in roles that require operating machinery or driving.
If you’ve experienced any of these injuries on the job, google workplace injury lawyer near me to find an experienced attorney to explain your rights and options for compensation.
Compensation Options if You’re Hurt on the Job
A workplace injury can leave you with medical expenses, lost income, and an uncertain future. Michigan law offers two main paths for financial recovery: filing a workers’ compensation claim or pursuing a lawsuit. The workplace injury claim depends on how the injury happened and who may be responsible:
Workers’ Compensation Claim
Workers’ compensation supports most employees injured while performing their duties, regardless of fault. Workplace injury benefits include:
- All necessary medical treatment for work-related injuries.
- Partial wage replacement, two-thirds of your regular wages at the time of injury.
- Vocational rehabilitation if returning to the same job isn’t possible.
- Pays disability benefits for temporary or permanent impairments.
For most injured workers, this is the primary source of financial support. However, it may not fully replace lost income and does not cover pain and suffering from the injury.
Lawsuit Against an Employer or Third Party
A lawsuit may be an option if someone other than your employer, like a contractor or equipment manufacturer, contributed to your injury. In rare cases, you may be able to sue your employer if they intentionally put you in danger or failed to provide the required safety protections. This legal action can:
- Provide full compensation for lost wages, including future earnings.
- May include damages for pain, suffering, and permanent disability.
- Requires proving fault, unlike workers’ compensation.
- Often takes longer to resolve but can offer greater financial recovery.
For those facing long-term losses, a lawsuit may provide broader support than workers’ compensation alone.
How To File a Workers Compensation Claim in Michigan
If you’re injured at work in Michigan, acting promptly to ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to is essential. Take these steps:
- Notify your employer immediately. Inform your supervisor about the injury as soon as it happens. Michigan law requires that you report the injury within 90 days.
- Seek medical attention. Get treatment from an approved medical provider. For the first 28 days, your employer has the right to choose the healthcare provider; you can then select your own.
- Document the incident. Complete a detailed accident report, including the injury’s date, time, location, and circumstances. Keep a copy for your records.
- File a workers’ compensation claim. Submit a claim to your employer or their insurance carrier as soon as possible. You may apply online or by printing and faxing the official claim form.
- Follow up on your claim. Stay in contact with your employer and the insurance company to monitor the status of your claim. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
- Keep detailed records. Maintain copies of all correspondence, medical records, and other documents related to your injury and claim. These may be necessary if disputes arise or your claim is denied.
Taking these steps helps ensure your claim is documented correctly, increasing your chances of receiving the benefits you need for medical care and missed wages without delay.
Why Consult an Attorney?
Workers’ compensation claims may seem straightforward, but many injured workers face delays, denials, or reduced benefits. A qualified workplace accident lawyer can help you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to and protect your rights if challenges arise.
Protecting Your Claim
Insurance companies and employers may dispute claims or limit payouts, leaving you without the support you need for recovery. Our team at Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C. will:
- Ensure all paperwork is completed correctly and submitted on time.
- Help gather medical evidence to strengthen your case.
- Challenge claim denials and push back against delays.
- Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf.
Having legal support can prevent unnecessary setbacks and keep your claim on track.
Maximizing Your Benefits
Even when claims are approved, insurance companies may try to limit the benefits you receive. Your lawyer can:
- Calculate lost wages and medical costs to ensure fair compensation.
- Determine eligibility for additional benefits, such as vocational rehabilitation.
- Negotiate settlements that reflect the full impact of your injury.
- Advise on long-term disability or permanent impairment benefits.
An attorney helps you understand what you’re entitled to and fights for the full amount you deserve.
Securing a Full Medical Evaluation
A thorough medical evaluation is essential for proving the extent of your injuries and getting the benefits you need. Your legal team will:
- Consult with medical experts to document the severity of your condition.
- Help you obtain a second opinion if the insurance company disputes your diagnosis.
- Review your medical records to ensure all necessary treatments are covered.
- Evaluate your ability to return to work to protect your health and secure necessary job modifications.
Accurate medical evidence strengthens your case and prevents insurers from downplaying your injury. Eileen Kroll, a partner attorney and registered nurse, uses her dual expertise to assess complex medical cases and advocate for the full treatment you deserve.
Handling Appeals and Lawsuits
Legal action may be necessary to recover proper compensation if your claim is denied or undervalued. Our attorneys can:
- File an appeal if benefits are wrongfully denied or reduced.
- Represent you during the hearings and negotiations with the insurance company.
- Guide you through the complex Michigan workplace injury legal process and deadlines.
If your injury involved third-party or employer negligence, we can help you pursue a lawsuit to hold the responsible party accountable.
Seek the Compensation You Deserve After a Workplace Injury
A workplace injury can disrupt your life and lead to financial vulnerability. Workers’ compensation should provide the support you need, but delays, denials, or low settlements can make recovery even harder.
At Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., we have the experience and resources to make sure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options.
Our contingency fee basis means we only get paid if we win your case, so there is no financial risk to you to get started. Call our law firm today at 1-866-MICH-LAW and schedule your no-obligation, free case evaluation.
Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.
