Workers’ comp settlements are generally based on medical expenses, lost wages, permanent impairment, vocational rehab, future medical costs, and additional costs.
When you or someone you know suffers a work-related injury, one of the first questions that arise is, “How is my workers’ compensation settlement calculated?” It’s essential to understand the various factors that play a role in determining this amount, so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly. If you’re in Missouri, having a seasoned work injury attorney on your side can be invaluable.
1. Medical Expenses
The primary purpose of workers’ compensation is to cover any medical expenses arising from the work-related injury. This includes:
- Initial emergency care
- Ongoing treatments
- Medications
- Physical therapy
- Necessary medical equipment
The extent of your injuries and the treatment required will significantly impact the settlement amount.
2. Lost Wages
If you’ve missed work due to your injury, workers’ compensation should compensate for the wages you’ve lost during that period. This could be for a few days, weeks, or even longer. The calculation usually considers:
- Your average weekly wage before the injury
- The length of time you’ve been out of work
3. Permanent Impairment or Disability
In unfortunate cases where the injury leads to permanent impairment or disability, the settlement should reflect this. If you can no longer work in your previous capacity or at all, this could mean a higher compensation amount.
The degree of impairment is determined through a rating provided by a medical expert, often expressed as a percentage. For instance, if you have a 20% impairment in your hand, it might result in a specific compensation amount based on the average weekly wage and the body part affected.
4. Vocational Rehabilitation
Some injuries might necessitate vocational rehabilitation, meaning you might need training to return to the workforce in a different capacity. If you require such services, their costs could be incorporated into your workers’ compensation settlement.
5. Future Medical Expenses
For lingering or chronic conditions, future medical treatments might be necessary. In such cases, the projected costs of these treatments will be estimated and potentially included in your settlement.
6. Additional Costs
There could be other related expenses, like travel to and from medical appointments, over-the-counter medications, or other costs. While these might seem small, they can add up and should be accounted for in the final calculation.
St. Louis Workers Compensation Lawyers
Now that you have a clearer understanding of how your workers’ compensation settlement is calculated, it’s also crucial to realize the importance of speaking with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. Every case is unique, with its own set of complexities. Interpretation of laws, negotiations with insurance companies, and understanding the nuances of workers’ compensation claims can be challenging.
That’s where an experienced St. Louis workers compensation attorney can be invaluable. If you’re seeking assistance, consider reaching out to the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann. We have over 30 years of experience handling thousands of cases and are dedicated to ensuring injured workers get the compensation they deserve.
Navigating the intricate waters of workers’ compensation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right attorney by your side, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the complexities of your case.
Speak with a Missouri work injury attorney at the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann. Call 24/7 for a free consultation.