When workplace injuries happen, Michigan workers often turn to workers’ compensation to help cover medical bills and lost wages. But if you’re labeled as an independent contractor, you might wonder if those protections apply to you. The line between an employee and an independent contractor isn’t always clear, and that distinction makes a major difference in your legal rights.
If you’ve been hurt on the job, don’t wait—reach out through our online contact form or call (810) 645-9147 to speak with someone about your situation.
Below, we’ll explain how workers’ compensation works for independent contractors in Michigan, how to tell if you’re truly an independent contractor, and what steps you can take if you were injured while working.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Michigan
Workers’ compensation is a system that provides benefits—like medical coverage and wage replacement—to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. These benefits are designed to help workers recover without needing to sue their employer.
However, Michigan law generally covers only employees under workers’ compensation. Independent contractors are usually excluded, leaving many injured workers unsure where they stand.
How Independent Contractors Differ From Employees
Whether someone is considered an employee or an independent contractor isn’t based on their job title alone. Michigan uses a variety of factors to determine a worker’s status, including the level of control an employer has over their work.
Here are some key differences between employees and independent contractors:
- Employees usually work set schedules, use employer-provided tools, and are closely supervised.
- Independent contractors typically set their own hours, provide their own equipment, and have more control over how the work gets done.
Because employers don’t pay workers’ compensation insurance for independent contractors, proving you were actually functioning as an employee can make a big difference if you’ve been hurt.
When Independent Contractors May Qualify for Workers’ Compensation
Even if you’ve been classified as an independent contractor, you might still be considered an employee in the eyes of the law. Michigan courts look at the reality of the working relationship rather than just the label your employer uses.
You may be considered an employee—and therefore eligible for workers’ compensation—if:
- Your employer controls how, when, and where you work
- Your work is a core part of the company’s business
- You are economically dependent on a single employer
- You cannot hire others to do the work on your behalf
If most of these apply to you, you may have a valid argument that you were misclassified and should be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
What To Do If You’re Hurt While Working as an Independent Contractor
Being injured on the job is stressful enough without navigating complex classification rules. If you’re an independent contractor who was injured while working, there are several steps you can take to protect your potential rights:
- Report your injury in writing to the company or individual you were working for
- Keep detailed records of your hours, pay, and the tasks you performed
- Gather any contracts, emails, or other evidence showing how the company controlled your work
- Seek medical care immediately and keep copies of all medical records
These steps can help create a clearer picture of your working relationship, which can be crucial if you must pursue a workers’ compensation claim or another legal option.
Alternative Options If Workers’ Compensation Isn’t Available
If you are ultimately considered an independent contractor and not eligible for workers’ compensation, you may still have other legal options to recover costs related to your injury. These can include:
- Filing a personal injury claim if someone else’s negligence caused your injury
- Seeking benefits through your own occupational accident insurance, if you have it
- Exploring short-term disability insurance or other financial assistance programs
While these paths differ from workers’ compensation, they may help cover lost income or medical expenses while you recover.
Seeking Guidance From Flint Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Determining whether you’re truly an independent contractor or an employee can be complicated, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of an injury. Speaking with knowledgeable Flint workers’ compensation attorneys can help you understand where you stand and what steps you can take next.
If you’ve been injured at work and aren’t sure about your classification, contact Steele & Ferguson, P.C. through our online contact form or call (810) 645-9147 to discuss your situation. Our team can evaluate your working relationship and help you explore your legal options.
Flint Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
If you’ve been hurt while working as an independent contractor in Michigan, it’s important to understand that your classification doesn’t always tell the whole story. The difference between being labeled an independent contractor and being treated as an employee could impact your right to workers’ compensation benefits.
To find out where you stand, reach out to Steele & Ferguson, P.C. through our online contact form or call (810) 645-9147. Speaking with Flint workers’ compensation attorneys can help you take the next step toward protecting your health and your future.