Dealing with the aftermath of a workplace injury can be overwhelming. And one of the most frequent questions injured workers ask is: how soon can I receive a workers comp settlement?

In this article, an experienced Boca Raton workers compensation lawyer will explain the main factors that can influence how long it takes for you to receive a settlement.

How Early Do Workers Comp Cases Settle?

Florida workers compensation cases can vary greatly in terms of how quickly they are resolved. Some cases may settle relatively early on, while others may take over a year to reach a resolution.

Typically, the process begins when you report your injury to your employer and file a claim with the insurance company. From there, it can take several months to reach a settlement or resolution.

In the initial stages, the insurance company will review your claim and gather relevant information such as medical records and witness statements. They may also request an independent medical examination (IME) to assess your injuries.

Once all necessary documentation is collected, the insurance company will evaluate your claim and determine whether they accept or deny it. If accepted, they may offer a settlement amount based on their evaluation of your injuries and lost wages.

Settling a workers comp claim means you agree to accept a lump sum payment and waive the right to further workers comp benefits.

Having a workers’ comp lawyer in Boca Raton representing you throughout this process can make all the difference. A skilled attorney will advocate for the full compensation you deserve when negotiating with the insurance company.

Factors That Influence the Timeline

The timeline presented above is not linear and without hiccups along the way. You must remember that insurance companies will try every strategy to reduce your claim or even deny it.

Several factors are at play during this process, determining how fast and smoothly it goes.

1. The Severity of Your Injuries

The severity of your injuries and the amount of benefits you are seeking influence how long settling your case may take. It will generally take longer to resolve your claim if:

• You suffered serious injuries.
• You are left with a permanent impairment.
• You have significant unpaid medical bills.

A good lawyer won’t agree to a settlement before you reach maximum medical improvement. This is the point where it’s determined if you have any lasting impairment or disability from your work injury. Obviously, this is an important factor in the settlement amount.

2. Disputes about What Happened or Your Injuries

When it comes to workers’ compensation claims, the existence of factual disputes about what happened or your injuries can significantly influence the timeline of your case. These disputes often arise when there are conflicting accounts of how the accident occurred or differing opinions on the severity and extent of your injuries.

In such cases, both parties may need to gather evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions. This process can take time as each side tries to build a strong case to support their position.

Moreover, if there is disagreement over the cause or nature of your injuries, additional medical examinations or evaluations might be necessary. This further prolongs the resolution of your claim as you await these assessments.

During this time, negotiations between you and the insurance company may also stall until all facts have been thoroughly examined and evaluated.

3. Whether You Have a Workers Comp Lawyer

Having legal counsel during negotiations with the workers’ comp insurer will turn the odds in your favor. An experienced lawyer knows how to assess the true worth of your injuries and fight for fair compensation.

They also know how to avoid pitfalls and tactics used by insurance adjusters to delay the resolution of your case or deny your claim. For instance, a skilled attorney can prove that you were acting within the scope of your employment when you were hurt, or that your condition (such as back pain) is related to your job.

Talk With a Boca Raton Workers Comp Lawyer

If you have been injured at work, it is highly recommended to consult with an experienced Boca Raton workers comp attorney before filing a claim. They can guide you through the process, negotiate on your behalf, and provide valuable legal advice based on their expertise in this area of law.

Your lawyer has the same goal as you: to settle your case as soon as possible for a fair amount. After all, since they work on a contingency fee basis, it is in their interest, too, to obtain the best outcome in the shortest time.

Don’t delay – contact our dedicated team today at (786) 686-2857 for a free consultation so we can help you understand your rights and options!