Gettysburg Workers Comp Settlement Lawyer
After being hurt on the job, you have the right to obtain medical benefits and lost wages from the workers’ compensation system in Pennsylvania. Many workers’ compensation cases end in a settlement. Injured employees should not always accept a settlement, though, particularly if it is not enough to cover your wages or medical expenses. Below, our Gettysburg workers comp settlement lawyer explains what you need to know about the process, and when to accept a settlement.
When to Accept a Workers Comp Settlement
There are certain instances when it makes sense to accept a workers’ comp settlement. If your doctor has placed restrictions on your ability to work, the restrictions are permanent, and you have been receiving workers’ compensation benefits for a long time, accepting a settlement may be practical.
It may also make sense to accept a workers’ comp settlement if you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Reaching MMI means that you are not going to recover any further from your injuries, but they are also not going to get worse. Many employees wait until they have reached MMI because it allows them to understand what future medical costs they will incur and ensure those expenses are included in the settlement.
A settlement may also be the best option if you do not believe you will win your case in front of a workers’ compensation judge. Employers may also want to offer a higher settlement if they believe a workers’ compensation judge will not decide in their favor.
When to Accept a Lump Sum Workers Comp Settlement
Obtaining a lump sum settlement is one way to get your workers’ comp benefits. If you have reached MMI, it may make sense to accept a lump sum settlement based on total permanent disability. You may also want to accept a lump sum settlement if the process has been long and tedious for you and you want to get it over with. Before making any rash decisions, though, it is critical to speak with a Gettysburg workers’ comp settlement lawyer who can advise on whether this is the best course of action.
When to Accept a Structured Workers Comp Settlement
A structured settlement means you will receive a set number of payments. Structured settlements can help you avoid the tax implications that are associated with lump sum payments. Additionally, if you think you may spend a lump sum settlement too quickly, a structured settlement can ensure that you can cover your future expenses.
Our Workers Comp Settlement Lawyer in Gettysburg Can Answer Your Questions
It is not always easy to determine if you should accept a workers’ comp settlement, or what type of settlement you should accept. At Ira H. Weinstock, P.C., our Gettysburg workers comp settlement lawyer can answer all of your questions and help you determine when and which type of settlement to accept. Call us today at 717-238-1657 or fill out our online form to schedule a free review of your case and to get the information you need.
