- Do I Receive My Compensation All at Once? You have the choice to settle your case in two different ways. The first method, Compromise and Release, involves receiving all of your compensation at one time and closing your case. With a Compromise and Release, all future payments stop and you receive a lump sum payment intended to cover all of your medical expenses. A Stipulation settlement, on the other hand, allows you to not only be paid for your disability but also ensures that your future medical treatments are covered for as long as you need them.
- How Much Do I Get and What Do I Pay My Attorney? To ascertain your portion of the settlement, you need to ask your attorney about the net settlement amount, the total you receive after your attorney is paid. It’s also a good idea to ask your attorney to make sure all of your medical expenses are paid before the settlement so that you aren’t in debt when the case is finalized.
- How Long Does the Settlement Process Take? It can take time for a workers’ compensation case to be settled. Your attorney should be able to give you an approximate time frame once the process is underway. If you haven’t heard anything, contact your attorney and ask as it’s their job to keep you up to date so that you have the answers you need.
- Can I Fight for More Than They Offer? Insurance companies want to save money, so the first offer they send you may be relatively low. Your attorney will be able to help you get the compensation you deserve. They will go over your case with you and figure out whether or not the settlement offer is sufficient or if the case can be better handled during a trial.
- Is Approval By a WCAB Judge Required? According to the law, all workers’ compensation settlements must be approved by a WCAB judge. Approval by a WCAB judge ensures that all settlements meet specific requirements and are beneficial to the injured party. It also ensures that both the attorneys and the insurance companies are as upfront as possible at all times.
The attorneys at Gaylord & Nantais have the experience and knowledge you can rely on if you have been injured in the workplace. As reputable workers’ compensation attorneys, they will always go the extra mile to ensure their clients are taken care of and receive the compensation they deserve.
