Michigan is a state with a strong manufacturing sector, and with that comes many blue-collar jobs. State law provides a system to support injured workers. It’s designed to cover medical costs and partially replace lost wages. But none of that happens automatically. You’ve got to know the right steps, act quickly, and avoid common mistakes that could delay or even block your compensation.
If you’re feeling unsure about the whole process, it’s a good idea to reach out to high workers’ compensation lawyers in Michigan. They can guide you through the steps and make sure you don’t miss anything important.
Here are some immediate steps to take after a workshop accident in Michigan.
Seek Medical Attention
If you get injured at work, the first thing you need to do is seek medical attention, even if the injury seems minor. Some injuries may not show up immediately, so it’s important to get checked by a doctor right away.
This not only helps make sure you’re properly treated, but it also provides a record of the injury, which is crucial for things like workers’ compensation. The sooner you get medical help, the better it will be for your health and for any future claims or legal steps you may need to take.
Report An Injury To Your Employer
Once you’ve received initial treatment, or immediately after the incident if it’s not an emergency, report the injury to your employer. This isn’t something to push off until later.
Under Michigan law, you must report your injury within 90 days. But don’t wait that long because sooner is better, and delays can raise red flags. Even if your injury seems small, maybe a wrist sprain or a pulled muscle, make sure you report it. Things that seem minor today can become major problems tomorrow.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Once your employer knows about your injury, they should file a claim with their workers’ compensation insurance provider. But don’t assume it’s done; follow up. In some cases, they may delay or forget to send it in, and that could leave you waiting without any benefits.
Here’s what needs to happen:
- Employer’s Role: They complete a form called WC-100 (Employer’s Basic Report of Injury) and send it to the insurance company.
- Your Role: Cooperate with the paperwork. If the insurance company sends you forms to complete, fill them out accurately. Describe the injury in full detail: when, where, how, and what was affected. Don’t say anything vague.
If the claim is approved, workers’ comp should begin covering medical treatment and part of your lost wages. But if it’s denied, and that happens more often than people expect, you’ll need to go a step further.
Know What You’re Entitled to Under Michigan Workers’ Comp
Workers’ compensation in Michigan isn’t a handout. It’s a legal right. If you were injured on the job, you’re likely entitled to:
- 100% coverage of medical expenses related to your injury.
- Wage-loss benefits, typically about 80% of your after-tax wages.
- Vocational rehabilitation if you can’t return to your previous job.
- Mileage reimbursement for traveling to and from medical appointments.
- Permanent disability benefits (if applicable in severe cases).
If Your Claim is Denied, Appeal
A denied claim doesn’t mean it’s over; it just means the process is about to get more technical. Michigan law allows you to appeal a denied workers’ compensation claim through the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency (WDCA).
Here’s what you need to do:
- Request a copy of the denial letter. It should include the reason your claim was rejected.
- File an Application for Mediation or Hearing (Form WC-104A).
- Prepare your case. That means gathering medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and anything else that proves your injury is real and work-related.
Talk to a Michigan Workers’ Compensation Attorney
A good workers’ comp attorney in Michigan will do more than just file paperwork. They’ll:
- Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf.
- Ensure your medical evidence is strong and complete.
- Represent you in hearings and appeals.
- Push back against delays, denials, or underpaid benefits.
And most importantly, they don’t charge you upfront. In Michigan, attorneys work on a contingency basis for workers’ comp cases, meaning you’re not mandated to pay them unless they win your benefits in court. So, there’s no reason to go it alone, especially if your case starts getting complicated.