Hurt on the Job in Lansing? 7 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Workers’ Comp Claim

If you were injured on the job in Lansing, you might assume that workers’ compensation will automatically cover your medical bills and lost wages. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Michigan’s workers’ comp system is filled with red tape, strict deadlines, and insurance companies looking for any excuse to deny or reduce your benefits. One small mistake can cost you thousands or even leave you without any compensation at all.

At The Clark Law Office, we’ve helped countless Lansing workers recover after serious job-related injuries. Whether you were hurt at a construction site, in a hospital, or at a local business, avoiding these common missteps can make all the difference in your case. Below are 7 critical mistakes that can ruin a workers’ comp claim and how to protect your rights from day one.

What Happens After a Workplace Injury in Lansing?

The moments after a job-related injury can be overwhelming but what you do next can make or break your claim. Michigan law gives workers the right to compensation for medical treatment and wage loss, but only if you follow the correct steps. Many workers unknowingly jeopardize their benefits by skipping key actions early on.

Whether you slipped on a wet floor at a local warehouse or threw out your back at a Lansing construction site, the workers’ comp process typically starts with reporting your injury to your employer. From there, you’ll be directed to a doctor (often chosen by your employer for the first 28 days), and an insurance company will investigate your claim.

To help you stay on track, here’s a quick guide:

Mistake #1: Failing to Report the Injury Immediately

One of the most damaging mistakes an injured worker can make is waiting too long to report the accident. Under Michigan law, you must notify your employer within 90 days of the injury. However, the longer you wait, the more suspicious your claim may appear to the insurance company and the easier it is for them to deny it.

Many workers try to “tough it out,” hoping the pain will go away, or they fear retaliation for speaking up. But without a timely report, there’s no official record that the injury happened at work. That gives the employer and their insurer room to argue that your injury occurred somewhere else or didn’t happen at all.

What to do instead: Report the injury as soon as it happens, ideally in writing, and ask your employer to document it. If possible, keep a copy for your own records and note any witnesses who saw the incident.

Mistake #2: Not Seeing a Doctor or Following Medical Advice

Delaying medical treatment or ignoring your doctor’s instructions can seriously damage your credibility and your claim. Insurance companies look for any reason to argue that your injury isn’t as serious as you say. If there are long gaps in treatment, skipped appointments, or signs that you didn’t follow medical advice, they may reduce or deny your benefits.

In Michigan, your employer can choose the doctor you see for the first 28 days after your injury. After that, you have the right to switch to your own provider. Regardless of who you see, it’s critical to follow through with every appointment, diagnostic test, and physical restriction.

What to do instead: Seek medical care immediately after your injury even if symptoms seem minor. Stick to your treatment plan, follow all restrictions, and don’t miss appointments. Keeping thorough medical records is one of the best ways to strengthen your claim and protect your rights.

Mistake #3: Trusting the Insurance Company to Be Fair

It’s easy to assume that your employer’s insurance company will handle your claim honestly but that can be a costly mistake. At the end of the day, insurance adjusters are not on your side. Their job is to save money for the company, and that often means denying valid claims, underpaying benefits, or pushing injured workers back to their jobs too soon.

Some common tactics include sending you to “independent” medical exams (IMEs) that favor the insurer, misclassifying your injury to reduce payments, or delaying your checks to pressure you into a quick settlement. Without legal guidance, many injured workers accept far less than they deserve.

What to do instead: Be cautious in all communication with the insurance company. Don’t give recorded statements without legal advice, and never assume their first offer is the best you can get. A skilled Lansing workers’ comp lawyer can handle negotiations and ensure your rights are protected.

Mistake #4: Returning to Work Too Soon Without Clearance

After a workplace injury, you may feel pressure from your employer, coworkers, or even yourself to get back on the job as soon as possible. While it’s understandable to want things to return to normal, going back to work without medical clearance can jeopardize both your health and your workers’ comp benefits.

If you return too soon and reinjure yourself, the insurance company may argue that the new injury isn’t covered. Worse, resuming work against your doctor’s orders can be used as evidence that you weren’t seriously injured in the first place. This can lead to reduced benefits or a complete denial of your claim.

What to do instead: Only return to work when your treating physician has formally cleared you and documented your restrictions in writing. If your employer tries to pressure you into returning too early, speak with an attorney immediately.

Mistake #5: Posting About Your Injury on Social Media

What you share online can and often will be used against you in a workers’ comp case. Insurance companies and defense lawyers routinely monitor claimants’ social media accounts looking for anything that can cast doubt on the severity of the injury. Even innocent posts can be twisted to fit a narrative that you’re not really hurt.

For example, a photo of you smiling at a family BBQ could be used to argue that you’re not in pain. A post about a short walk or trip could be misinterpreted as proof that you’re physically fine. Once something is online, even in a private account, it may be admissible in court or a hearing.

What to do instead: Avoid posting about your injury, your recovery, or anything physical while your claim is active. Better yet, pause all social media activity until your case is resolved—and remind family and friends not to tag or mention you either.

Mistake #6: Missing Important Deadlines for Filing or Appealing

Michigan has strict deadlines when it comes to filing a workers’ compensation claim, and missing one can cost you everything. Many injured workers don’t realize that these time limits apply even if they’re still recovering or waiting on more medical information.

In most cases, you must report your injury within 90 days, and you typically have 2 years to formally file a claim. If your benefits are denied or cut off, there are also short windows for appeal. Failing to act on time may leave you with no legal recourse even if your injury is legitimate.

What to do instead: As soon as your injury occurs, start tracking the calendar. Speak with a workers’ comp attorney right away to make sure all paperwork is filed properly and on time.

Bonus Mistake: Not Talking to a Lansing Workers’ Comp Lawyer

Workers’ compensation law in Michigan is complex, and relying on your employer or the insurance company to guide you is rarely in your best interest. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is trying to handle the claim alone especially if your injury is serious or your benefits have been denied.

Whether you’re unsure about your rights or just need help understanding how to file a workers comp claim in Lansing, having a trusted legal advocate can make all the difference. A local attorney who understands Lansing’s employers, courts, and insurance carriers can help you navigate the system, meet all deadlines, and push back against lowball offers or bad-faith tactics. At The Clark Law Office, we’ve helped injured workers across Lansing and Mid-Michigan get the compensation they deserve without the runaround or fine print.

What to do instead: Don’t wait until your claim is denied or delayed to get help. Speak with an experienced Lansing injury attorney early in the process to make sure your rights are protected from day one. A free consultation could make the difference between a denied claim and full benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lansing Workers’ Comp Claims