Returning to work after a workplace injury doesn’t automatically mean that workers’ compensation benefits are over. In a lot of cases, injured employees can still qualify for partial benefits while working in a light-duty job.
What is a Light-Duty Job?
In Michigan workers’ compensation cases, a light-duty job is an adjusted version of a role that is offered by the employer, following the injury of their worker. This role takes their injuries into account and allows them to continue working in a safe way. Common limitations after an accident include things like lifting, standing, bending over, or working full length shifts. All of these are accommodated through light-duty jobs.
Is Workers’ Comp Able to Be Received While Working Light Duty?
In many Michigan cases, injured workers may still receive wage-loss benefits while working light duty. If the altered position pays less than the original, you could qualify for partial wage-loss benefits. Michigan workers’ compensation generally pays a percentage of the difference between your pre-injury weekly wage and your current one.
An example of this would be if your wages were higher before your accident compared to your light-duty position, workers’ comp could help make up for some of those lost wages.
What if Your Employer Offers Light Duty?
Under Michigan law, employers are allowed to offer reasonable employment that considers your medical conditions following an accident. If the job really complies with your doctor’s limitations, then refusing it could potentially harm your benefits.
Disputes surrounding this tend to get brought up in determining whether a light-duty position is actually taking these medical restrictions into account. If the requirements of the role are impacting your injury, then you could have the ability to challenge the job offer. Having as much documentation from your doctor is essential in these types of situations.
What if No Light-Duty Work is Available?
If your employer can’t provide light-duty work, you can continue to receive the full package of workers’ comp benefits during your recovery. Michigan law mainly focuses on whether or not this type of employment is available. If jobs that accommodate your injuries aren’t possible, your employer can’t just stop paying your benefits.
Continuous medical documentation is so important. Getting treatment regularly and having clear communication with your physician helps to support your continued benefits.
Common Disputes in Light-Duty Cases
Light-duty situations can lead to disputes between injured workers and insurance companies. Employers or insurers could make the argument that the worker is fully capable of performing their standard tasks at work. If they succeed, wage-loss calculation can be reduced. In some cases, benefits are completely terminated after a light-duty position is offered.
Another issue that typically arises is inconsistent hours. If a light-duty job doesn’t provide a standard schedule of earnings, then it can be difficult to calculate wage-loss benefits. Making sure to accurately report your income and that it’s evaluated properly is key in protecting your benefits.
Medical Benefits Continue Even if You Return to Work
Returning to light-duty work doesn’t automatically end your right to medical treatment. In Michigan, workers’ compensation continues to cover all necessary medical care. Paying attention to Michigan’s Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency as they update all news related to workers’ comp will help you stay on top of aspects that can impact your case in real time.
Following your doctor’s treatment plan and attending all your appointments helps protect both your health and your claim.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Michigan workers’ compensation law can be complex, especially when light-duty work impacts wage-loss benefits. Being able to determine whether a job is actually considered sufficient employment, calculating partial wage-loss benefits, and responding to benefits being terminated all require necessary legal review.
Working with an experienced Michigan workers’ compensation attorney is the best way to approach your individual situation. Duff Law has a team ready to help, so make sure you reach out for your free consultation.