If you’ve been hurt on the job in Michigan, the state’s workers’ compensation laws are designed to provide medical care and wage replacement while you recover. The system is largely no-fault, meaning you don’t have to prove anyone caused your injury to receive benefits.

Who Is Covered?

Michigan’s Workers’ Disability Compensation Act requires most employers to carry insurance that covers:

• Full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers
• Minors and undocumented workers
• Some agricultural workers, depending on the size of the employer

Independent contractors are typically excluded unless they’re misclassified. Michigan uses a multifactor test to determine if a worker is actually an employee and therefore eligible for benefits.

Employer Insurance Requirements

Any private employer with three or more employees at any time, or one employee working 35 hours or more per week for 13 weeks or longer, must carry workers’ compensation insurance.

Employers can either purchase a policy or become self-insured if approved by the state. Failure to carry insurance is a misdemeanor and may lead to steep fines or lawsuits.

Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Michigan workers who are injured or become ill due to their job may qualify for:

• Medical Benefits: Coverage for all reasonable and necessary treatment, including surgery, rehabilitation, and prescription medication.
• Wage-Loss Benefits: If your injury prevents you from working, you may receive up to 80% of your after-tax wages.
• Partial Disability: If you can work in a lower-paying role, wage-loss benefits may be reduced but still available.
• Permanent Disability Benefits: Long-term or permanent injuries may entitle you to additional compensation or long-term wage replacement.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Job retraining and placement services may be provided if you cannot return to your prior work.
• Survivor Benefits: If a worker dies due to a job-related injury, dependents may receive weekly benefits and burial expenses up to a set amount.

Reporting and Filing Deadlines

Timing is crucial:

• Report your injury to your employer within 90 days of the incident.
• You must file a formal claim within two years of the injury or the onset of work-related illness symptoms.

Delays could lead to denial of your claim or delayed benefits.

Choice of Doctor

Initially, the employer or insurance company may choose your doctor for the first 28 days of treatment. After that, you may select your own physician, but you must notify your employer and insurer of the change.

Common Workplace Injuries Covered

Michigan workers’ comp laws cover a wide range of injuries, including:

• Slips, trips, and falls
• Lifting injuries
• Machinery and equipment accidents
• Construction-related injuries
• Exposure to harmful substances
• Repetitive motion injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome)

Mental health conditions may also be covered if they are clearly linked to workplace stress or trauma.

Disputes and Appeals

If your claim is denied, you can:

1. File an application for mediation or hearing with the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency (WDCA)
2. Present evidence at a magistrate hearing
3. Appeal to the Michigan Compensation Appellate Commission if needed

Legal representation can be helpful at every stage, especially when gathering medical records or witness testimony.

Legal Help for Workers

You may want to contact a workers’ compensation attorney if:

• Your claim is denied or delayed
• You’re not receiving the right benefit amount
• You’re being forced to return to work too soon
• You’re offered a settlement you don’t understand

Don’t Miss Out on the Support You Deserve

Michigan’s workers’ compensation system offers strong protections, but that doesn’t mean every claim is smooth. Reporting your injury quickly, keeping medical records, and seeking legal advice when necessary can help you get the support and treatment you’re entitled to.