How our workers comp lawyers negotiated a settlement five times greater than what had previously been offered.
Sometimes we get calls from individuals who have already settled their workers comp cases. Unfortunately, we cannot help these people as their claims are closed.
It does not matter if they need additional medical treatment or cannot find a job. Once a case is settled, that is the end of the road.
The decision to settle a workers comp case is not easy. Many factors must be considered including your future plans and need for medical treatment. Sometimes a settlement is not in your best interests.
Why insurance companies offer small amounts
Insurance companies want to close claims as fast and cheaply as possible. This means that you may be offered a small sum of money to settle your case.
The insurance company is betting that you don’t understand your legal rights and will settle cheaply. The fact that you may have financial difficulties does not go unnoticed.
A real-world example
We recently represented a woman who had agreed to settle her case for a relatively small amount. The insurance company made a lowball offer and justified it based upon its own medical evidence. The opinion of the treating doctor was ignored.
Turns out that her case was worth about five times what was really offered. The insurance company tried to take a hard line but ended up paying a lot more. Our fee was made up many times over.
Where to turn for help
Talking to an experienced lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and get a sense of the big picture.
Your settlement should be based upon future medical needs. It should also take into consideration how much the insurance company anticipates paying in future wage loss benefits.
To speak with one of our workers comp lawyers in Michigan, call (855) 221-2667 for a free telephone consultation. We never charge a fee unless you are successful with your case.
– Alex Berman is the founder of Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers. Hes been representing injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Alex has helped countless people obtain workers comp benefits and never charges a fee to evaluate a case.
Related information:
The value of your workers comp case
– Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by 401(K) 2012.