Should I Settle My Workers' Compensation Claim?
It is best not to accept a final settlement until you consult with a lawyer. Important issues must be addressed to ensure you are getting the maximum benefits you are allowed under the law.
When injured workers accept a settlement without the benefit of legal counsel, they often sign away crucial rights. The attorneys at the Law Office of Donald D. Zuccarello can review settlement offers and determine whether the benefits are adequate. If they are not, we can represent you through the appeals process. For a free consultation with our Nashville workers' compensation settlement attorneys, please call 800-391-4525 or contact us online.
You Do Not Have to Accept the Settlement You Are Offered
What makes a fair workers' compensation settlement? It is different for every worker, and will depend on factors such as:
- The injury and the body part(s) affected. Some injuries have a greater impact on your ability to return to work. You should receive an additional award for the permanent loss of certain parts of the body, including the fingers, hand, arm, toes, foot, leg, eyes and ears.
- Your Permanent Partial Impairment Rating (PPI) or Medical Impairment Rating (MIR). These will be assigned once you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) with respect to your work injury. This is determined by the treating physician (company doctor) and is the most critical element in calculating your workers' comp benefits.
- The amount you were earning (average weekly wage including overtime earnings) at the time of the injury.
- Whether you returned to work after the injury at the same rate of pay.
You have the right to contest any element of a workers' comp settlement if it is not accurate or fair. Discussing your options with an attorney can help you decide when or if to accept a settlement.
Tennessee Medical Bills Attorneys
To schedule a free consultation, please call 800-391-4525 today.
