If you sustain a job-related injury or illness, workers’ compensation may cover your related medical expenses and pay a portion of your lost earnings. The majority of workers’ compensation claims lead to the insurance provider paying out compensation while an injured worker gets treatment for their condition. After they reach maximum medical improvement or MMI, they get monthly compensation for lost earning capacity. But they can also negotiate a lump sum settlement with the insurance company or their employer. Settlement can take place whether there is a dispute about the payable amount or not.
Can a Worker Demand a Settlement?
A workers’ compensation settlement only happens if a claimant and the other party agree to one. But employers or insurance companies may only agree to a settlement if they think it makes economic sense to them. Because of this, claimants must understand their claim’s true value and the potential of an insurer agreeing to a settlement. A workers compensation lawyer in Mohave can help them make such evaluations.
If a worker applies for workers’ comp benefits, nobody will look out for their best interest but them and their lawyer. A claim settlement may not be fair. The Arizona Law Judge only determines whether or not the settlement meets the legal requirements. Having an experienced attorney representing a claimant is necessary. The lawyer can advise them how to best proceed and negotiate the best agreement on their behalf. A lump sum may have attractive short-term benefits, but an injured employee should protect themselves for their lifetime, not only the next few months.
Value Estimation
How much workers’ comp benefits an injured worker may get depends on the total benefits they may be eligible for and their chances of getting such benefits. This depends on the kind of disability they have and whether they have a temporary or permanent disability. An attorney can offer the necessary expertise to accurately evaluate such an amount and make sure they get fair compensation.
Traditionally, workers’ compensation settlements in Mohave, Arizona let injured employees reopen their claims when they needed more medical care for treating their job-related injuries. But a new law allows claimants to reach a full and final workers’ comp settlement with the defendant. In this type of settlement, the employee waives the potential of future medical care they may need for known conditions. The settlement includes medical maintenance benefits and expected future medical expenses the injured worker may incur.
