Filing a Worker’s Compensation Claim: The Steps to Take

Few things can be more stressful and difficult than a work-related injury. There’s the default pain and suffering, of course, followed by the inability to work. But since bills do not disappear when we cannot work, you now have to enter the worker’s comp process.  But in today’s industrialized world, the process is more complex than many anticipate, as insurance companies will fight tooth and nail to avoid paying for workers’ medical bills and lost wages. Often, they will deny claims, even valid ones, or pawn them off on vocational rehabilitation programs that do not set them up for the success they promise. This is where worker’s comp lawyers come in; with a dedicated team behind you, you can focus on recovery, while we focus on getting you the compensation that you’re owed.

Where Our Attorneys Come Into Play

With over four decades experience in the Michigan legal scene, the worker’s comp lawyers at The Clark Law Office are battle-tested, and will fight for you. Past victories have given our lawyers the investigative and litigious skills necessary to take on major insurance companies and walk away with fair settlements.  If you are having trouble getting your worker’s comp claim accepted, contact us to have a dedicated attorney look over your case and see what is a legitimate compensation demand.

The Nuts & Bolts of Filing a Worker’s Comp Claim in The State of Michigan

Our attorneys are well-versed in Michigan state law regarding worker’s compensation benefits, meaning they are in a good position to counsel and represent employees with work-related injuries. Some of these injuries may include but are not limited to:

  • Hand, finger, and limb amputations
  • Knees/shoulder injuries
  • Occupational diseases (i.e., mesothelioma & asbestosis)
  • Mental/psychological injuries caused by work-related stress
  • Neck or back injuries
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and other repetitive stress injuries
  • Head injuries, traumatic brain injury

Given our experience in the worker’s comp claim filing process, our lawyers are well-suited for the entire process, from the initial notice of injury and accident report to the conclusion. We will use all of our resources to protect your rights and make sure you receive all of the benefits to which you’re entitled under Michigan state law.  Injured workers can count on us for each of the following legal issues:

  • Filing or appealing a workers’ compensation claim
  • Social Security Disability benefit applications/appeals for workers unable to work due to disability
  • Third party negligence claims against any liable parties other than the employer (private contractors & vendors, equipment manufacturers, etc.)

Once a case has been taken, you can count on the workers’ compensation attorneys at The Clark Law Office to fight for your claim as hard as necessary.

Do I Qualify for Worker’s Comp?

Arguably the two most major components of every workers’ compensation case fall in the relevance and future aspects of the injury.  First, you must prove that your injury is work-related, in that it would not have occurred if not due to your employment.  This can be obvious, like a machinery injury on a construction site or a severe burn due to a stove at a restaurant. However, it can also be something more indirect, such as a car accident while driving on the clock for your employer, or the development of a repetitive action injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tennis elbow.

Regardless, the injury’s origin must be work-related for workers’ comp.  The second element is the future ability to work. The worker must prove that the injury makes them unable to gain employment or work, rendering them disabled, either for the time being or permanently.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare! (And Prepare Some More)

As with most things, preparation is everything in worker’s compensation. The process of filing for worker’s comp involves providing thorough documentation, or you risk being denied. You need to have medical records, diagnoses, and all other relevant information on hand, to expedite the process and cut off easy exits for the insurance company.

When appealing a denial of worker’s comp benefits, an additional medical opinion affirming your condition may also be necessary, especially if the insurance company has deemed you only partially disabled (their way of avoiding a payout or settlement).  Throughout this entire process, having a skilled worker’s comp lawyer by your side can make a massive difference. The right lawyer will compile all of the relevant information and know exactly which angles the insurers will aim for, to cut them off preemptively. Based off past legal experience, these lawyers can give you a strong chance at your claim going favorably.

The Workers’ Fighter!

At The Clark Law Office, we know that an injury can be debilitating, both for the worker and their family. That is why we fight for them in court, preparing strong cases to ensure they get the benefits to which they’re entitled under the law. We don’t let insurance companies call the shots, as we know it will almost always hurt our clients.  Get in touch with an experienced worker’s comp lawyer today, or call us at +1 (517) 347-6900.

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