Westland Work Injury Lawyer:

Seeking Compensation for Workplace Injuries

‍If you've experienced an injury or illness at your workplace in Westland that prevents you from working, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits. Dealing with the aftermath of a workplace injury can be overwhelming, with missed paychecks, mounting medical bills, and a deluge of paperwork adding to the stress. Fortunately, Michigan law mandates that employers carry workers' compensation insurance to protect their workers from the adverse consequences of work-related injuries.

‍Understanding Workers' Compensation and Its Function

‍Workers' compensation is a type of insurance purchased by companies to safeguard their employees from injuries and illnesses arising from their job duties. It acts as a safety net, providing support to injured workers so they don't face unemployment and financial hardships while they recover. In certain occupations that carry inherent risks, workers should not bear the burden of managing the aftermath of an injury alone.

‍Under the Michigan Workers' Compensation Act, individuals who sustain workplace injuries are eligible for various forms of financial assistance to cover their injury-related expenses. These benefits include:

‍1. Compensation for lost wages during time off work.

2. Coverage for medical expenses incurred due to the injury.

3. Job training if a change in profession becomes necessary.

4. Death benefits for workers who lose their lives in work-related incidents.

‍Unlike personal injury cases, workers can qualify for benefits regardless of whether they were at fault for the workplace incident. However, injured employees cannot seek compensation for damages typically awarded in personal injury lawsuits.

‍Common Causes of Workplace Injuries

‍The majority of nonfatal work-related injuries stem from three primary causes, accounting for over 84% of such incidents. These causes include:

‍1. Overexertion and Repetitive Motion Injuries:

Overexertion injuries occur when workers exert excessive physical effort in performing their tasks, resulting in harm. This includes activities such as lifting, pushing, turning, carrying, and throwing objects. Repetitive motion injuries arise from the repetitive nature of certain jobs, leading to stress or strain on specific parts of the body. Examples include tasks like lifting boxes, typing on a computer, using machinery, extended periods of sitting, and working on production lines.

‍2. Slip and Fall Injuries:

Slip and fall accidents are among the most common workplace injuries, accounting for 25% of annual injury cases according to the U.S. Department of Labor. These incidents involve falling due to slippery floors, tripping hazards, or heights such as ladders, roofs, scaffolding, and other structures.

‍3. Injuries from Contact with Equipment and Objects:

This category includes injuries resulting from workers being struck by or colliding with objects. It encompasses instances where a worker is hit by a moving object, pushed in front of an object, crushed by equipment, or caught in wire or rope. Accidents involving collapsing structures, equipment, or materials also fall under this category.

‍Workers' Compensation Coverage for Occupational Illnesses

‍Workers' compensation also covers occupational illnesses, which can arise as a result of job-related factors. When employees fall ill due to their work, workers' compensation insurance helps cover some of the associated expenses.

‍Occupational illnesses include diseases that develop from exposure to hazardous work environments or substances. Common work-related illnesses encompass hearing loss, respiratory diseases, skin conditions, and toxic chemical poisoning. Addressing work-related illnesses can be complex due to the need to establish a causal link between the illness and the job, excluding other factors like genetics or personal activities. Moreover, many illnesses develop gradually over time, making it challenging to pinpoint their origin.

‍Actions to Take if You're Injured on the Job

‍If you sustain an injury during your employment, it is crucial to promptly report the incident, injury, or illness to your employer, even if it initially appears minor. Minor injuries can‍ sometimes develop into more severe conditions in the days or weeks following the incident. For instance, what may seem like a strained muscle could be an indicator of long-term nerve damage, or a sore back from lifting a heavy object might be a herniated disc requiring surgery.

‍Additionally, it is vital to have a medical professional evaluate any work-related injury. This will help determine the extent of the injury and the appropriate course of treatment. In the case of stress or repetitive motion injuries, modifying the ergonomic environment can not only address the injury but also prevent future injuries among other employees, ensuring their long-term well-being and ability to perform their jobs effectively.

‍Failing to report a workplace injury promptly may result in the forfeiture of your right to claim workers' compensation benefits.

‍Contacting a Westland Work Injury Lawyer

‍If you experience an on-the-job injury in Westland, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a Westland personal injury attorney at Marko Law. Going through these challenging times alone can be overwhelming, but we are here to help you navigate the process and seek the compensation you deserve. We possess a deep understanding of the causes and impacts of work accidents and injuries, as well as the laws and regulations surrounding workers' compensation in Michigan. Our team is committed to maximizing the compensation you receive.

‍Reach Out to Us Today for a Free Consultation

‍If you're ready to initiate your case or require further information about a Work Injury Lawyer in Westland, Michigan, don't hesitate to contact Marko Law Firm today. Allow us to represent you as you seek justice and compensation for your pain and suffering. Call (313) 777-7LAW today to schedule a free consultation or visit our website at MarkoLaw.com for additional details.

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