If you are unable to work because of an injury or illness that happened on the job in Warren, you might be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. When a workplace injury occurs, you may find yourself missing out on paychecks, accumulating medical bills, and being overwhelmed with paperwork. This can be an extremely stressful and uncertain time. Thankfully, Michigan law protects workers from negative fallout related to work injuries by requiring employers to carry worker's compensation insurance.‍

What is Workers’ Compensation and How Does It Work?

‍Workers' compensation is a form of insurance that is purchased by an employer to protect their employees from job-related injuries and illness. It provides a safeguard for injured workers so that they are not left with no job and no money while trying to recuperate from an injury. Some jobs can be hazardous, and it should not be the responsibility of the employee to deal with all the repercussions that come with an injury.Under the Michigan Workers' Compensation Act, individuals that are injured at work can receive various kinds of financial support to cover their injury-related expenses. This includes:

• missed income from time off work
• medical costs
• job training if you have to change careers
• death benefits if a worker dies in a work-related accident

Unlike a personal injury claim, workers can qualify for benefits despite being at fault for a work-related incident. However, injured employees can not recover compensation for damages typically granted in a personal injury claim.

‍Common Causes of Workplace Injuries

‍The top three leading causes of work-related injuries make up more than 84% of all nonfatal injuries at work. This includes:

• overexertion and repetitive motion injuries
• slip and fall injuries
• injuries from contact with equipment and objects

Overexertion and Repetitive Motion Injuries

‍Overexertion injuries can happen when a worker uses excessive physical effort to do a job and becomes injured. This includes lifting, pushing, turning, holding, carrying, or throwing.The repetitive motion caused by stress or strain on some part of the body is due to the repetitive nature of the task. Common repetitive tasks include lifting boxes, typing on a computer, using a ten-key machine, sitting for long hours, and working on an assembly line.

‍Slip and Fall Injuries

‍Slip and fall accidents are among the most frequent on-the-job injuries. They make up 25% of annual injury cases, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Falls at work involve falling from slippery floors, from tripping, and from heights like ladders, roofs, scaffolding, or various other structures.Injuries from Contact with Equipment and ObjectsContact with equipment and objects refers to injuries that occur when a worker is struck by something or runs into something. This can include an employee being struck by a moving object, bumping into or being pushed in front of an object, being crushed in equipment, or being caught in cable or rope. It might also include accidents like a worker being struck or crushed by collapsing structures, equipment, or materials.

‍Workers' Comp Can Also Cover Occupational Illnesses

‍In addition to being injured, employees can also get sick with an illness because of their job. When this happens, workers' compensation insurance is designed to help cover some of the expenses.Work-related illnesses include diseases that develop from hazardous work environments or workplace exposures. Some typical illnesses that occur on the job include:

• Hearing loss
• Respiratory diseases
• Skin conditions
• Toxic chemical poisoning

Cases involving occupational illness are complex for a number of different reasons. One of the main reasons is that you will have to prove that your illness was caused by your job, and not from some other factor like genetics or something that occurred during your personal time. This is further complicated by the fact that many illnesses develop gradually, which makes them harder to notice and to identify the origin.

‍What Should I Do if I Am Hurt at Work?

‍If you become injured during your employment, you should always report the accident, injury, or condition as soon as possible to your employer. This is important even if an injury seems minor. This, is because injuries that seem small in the beginning can end up being much more serious in the coming days or weeks. For instance, an injury that may feel like only a strained muscle can end up being a symptom of permanent nerve damage. Or a sore lower back from lifting a heavy object could be a disc herniation that needs surgery. Furthermore, you should always have a work-related injury examined by a medical professional. This is the only way to find out the extent of your injury, and what can be done to recuperate. This is particularly important for stress or repetitive motion injuries. Here, making changes in the ergonomic environment may not only cure the injury but help to prevent injuries to others. Further, to protect the long-term ability of a worker to maintain and carry on in his or her job. Finally, waiting too long to report an injury on the job may seize your right to claim any kind of workers' compensation benefits.

‍Should You Consult With a Warren Workers' Compensation Lawyer?

‍Consequently, if sustain an on-the-job injury in Warren, speak to the Warren personal injury lawyers at Marko Law. Do not go through these tough times on your own. We are here to help you with your claim. We understand the causes and impacts of job accidents and injuries. Additionally, we know the laws and regulations related to workers' compensation in Michigan and will work to make the most of the compensation you receive.

‍Contact Us Today to Get a Free Consultation

‍If you are ready to start your case or need more information about Workplace Accidents in Warren, Michigan, contact Marko Law Firm today. Let us represent you as you seek justice and compensation for your pain and damages. Call (313) 777-7LAW today to get a free consultation or visit our website: MarkoLaw.com to get more information.