Am I Due a Worker’s Compensation Settlement?
Am I Entitled to a Workers’ Compensation Settlement?
You may wonder whether you are eligible for a settlement if you’ve been injured at work. It’s a common question, but the answer isn’t always straightforward. Workers’ compensation settlements are not automatically awarded. Typically, a settlement is granted when a workplace injury results in permanent impairment or lasting impact on your health and ability to work.
When Are Workers’ Compensation Settlements Paid?
To qualify for a workers’ compensation settlement, the injury must be determined to have caused a permanent impairment. Determining whether your injury is permanent often begins with the authorized workers’ compensation doctor’s evaluation. This doctor will assign a Permanent Partial Impairment (PPI) rating based on your condition after you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). This rating plays a key role in calculating any potential settlement.
However, it’s important to note that the insurance company chooses doctors for many authorized workers’ compensation. This can sometimes lead to decisions that favor the insurer, such as assigning a 0% PPI rating, which implies no permanent impairment.
What If I Disagree With My PPI Rating?
Receiving a 0% PPI rating does not mean your case is over. You can challenge the PPI rating if you believe your injury has caused a permanent impairment. You are entitled to seek a second opinion from another qualified medical provider. An independent medical examination (IME) can provide a more accurate assessment of your condition and may support your case for a settlement.
Knowing that you can negotiate or contest the insurance company’s findings is also important. Workers’ compensation laws are designed to protect injured workers, and you don’t have to accept an unfavorable decision without taking further action.
Why Permanent Injuries Matter in Workers’ Compensation Cases
Permanent injuries can significantly impact your life, affecting your ability to work, perform daily tasks, or enjoy the activities you once did.
Settlements in workers’ compensation cases aim to provide financial compensation for these lasting effects, helping to cover loss of earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job, ongoing medical expenses related to the injury, and pain and suffering associated with permanent impairments. If you believe your workplace injury has caused lasting harm, you have the right to pursue a settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
How Klezmer Maudlin Can Help
At Klezmer Maudlin, we understand the challenges injured workers face when navigating the workers’ compensation process. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping you secure the settlement you deserve, whether challenging a low PPI rating, negotiating with the insurance company, or representing you in court.
Here’s how we can assist:
- Evaluating Your Case: We’ll review your medical records, work history, and PPI rating to determine your eligibility for a settlement.
- Arranging Independent Medical Evaluations: We can help you obtain a second opinion to contest an unfair PPI rating.
- Negotiating With Insurers: We’ll advocate on your behalf to ensure the insurance company considers the full extent of your injuries.
- Protecting Your Rights: We’ll represent you before the workers’ compensation board to secure a fair outcome if necessary.
When to Contact a Workers Compensation Attorney
Do You Need Legal Assistance?
After a workplace injury, you should not have to handle the workers’ compensation process alone. It is essential to understand your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to, including compensation for your recovery and any lasting effects of your injury.
If you have questions about your claim, need advice on an insurance settlement, or want to discuss your case with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney, we are here to assist you.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We are dedicated to helping injured workers protect their rights and secure the compensation they need to move forward.
If you’ve been denied a settlement or received a 0% PPI rating that doesn’t reflect the reality of your condition, now is the time to seek legal help. At Klezmer Maudlin, we are committed to helping injured workers fight for fair compensation and access the benefits they are entitled to.
Contact us today for a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist with your case. You don’t have to navigate the process alone—our team is here to help you every step of the way.