Understanding the Timeline for Medical and Wage Loss Benefits for Workers
A question we frequently hear is: How long can you stay on workers’ comp in Michigan? This concern is common because a workplace injury can significantly impact your ability to return to your regular job duties. This can be challenging because of automatic reductions tied to age and retirement. Insurance companies often challenge claims, especially when they believe the claim has dragged on for too long.
Planning ahead is crucial for managing future needs and working towards getting back to your normal routine. Here are some key factors to keep in mind.
Length of Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Michigan
Michigan law allows workers’ comp benefits to continue for your entire life if necessary. However, for indefinite coverage, medical treatments must be reasonable, necessary, and directly related to the workplace injury. Wage loss benefits are available as long as you remain disabled and part of the workforce, though they may be reduced because of age and retirement.
Wage Loss Benefits
Michigan workers who are declared disabled by their doctor qualify for wage loss benefits. The compensation is calculated at 80% of your after-tax average weekly wage, up to a state-regulated maximum, and it includes overtime and any secondary jobs that are no longer feasible.
Benefits continue throughout the entire period of disability, with a 5% annual reduction starting at age 65, eventually capping at a 50% reduction by age 75.
Medical Treatment Coverage
In Michigan, medical care for workplace injuries is a lifetime benefit. This includes treatments that are considered necessary and related to the injury. Keep in mind that insurance companies may bring in defense medical examiners to argue that further treatment isn’t required. If disputes arise, a magistrate will ultimately decide whether the treatment should be approved or denied.
Assistance for Injured Workers in Michigan
If you’ve been injured at work in Michigan and have questions about your workers’ comp claim, feel free to contact us for a free consultation. There’s no cost or obligation. Workers' Compensation lawyer Bruce Weider has the experience to help injured workers understand Michigan’s work injury laws and navigate the legal process. Reach out to us today to get started!
