Workers’ Comp laws are different in all 50 states.
Your benefit rate will be in the 66% range. There is a max and min rate, so if you are a high wage earner, you won’t get near as much as you are used to making.
Workers’ Comp is no-fault, so if you made a mistake (lifted with your back, caused a MVA, used a saw improperly, etc.,) you would likely be covered. There are some standard exclusions, such as horseplay, intentional acts, non work-related things that happen to occur while you are at work (ex: if someone comes by and beats you up for personal reasons.) Also, if you are intoxicated (by drugs or alcohol) your claim is not compensable.
You generally have the right to choose your own doctor, but be advised that not all doctors take workers’ comp. Some states also have networks of health care providers, so you will need to check with your carrier.
As for the reporting, yes, there is a deadline in most states by which time you must report your injury. In Texas, you have to notify your employer of an injury (a verbal notification is ok) within 30 days, and you must file your claim with the insurance carrier within a year.
Some states settle claims, and some have lifetime medical coverage- I’m not sure where Michigan falls. Should you choose not to settle, your medical coverage would continue. The treatment has to be directly related to your injury, though- if you have a back injury, they are likely going to give you 6 weeks- a couple of years of treatment, and not take care of your back pain for the rest of your life, if you have any pre-existing back conditions.
Only in the case of extreme low wage earners would you ever receive more money on a workers’ comp claim than your normal salary.
Hope that makes sense!
