Michigan lawyer discusses the average workers’ comp settlement for ankle surgery.
Our experience shows that ankle surgery is one of the worst things that can happen after a workplace accident. Standing and walking can become extremely difficult. It can take weeks for a person to even start weight bearing. Work injury benefits are supposed to cover all medical treatment and a percentage of lost wages. A lump sump cash payout allows a person to finish medical and vocational rehabilitation on their own terms. Here is some information about the average Michigan workers’ comp settlement for ankle surgery.
We have seen all kinds of on-the-job injuries over several decades of practice. Some people get better quickly and return to their jobs after a couple weeks. Others are disabled for much longer and need help finding a new career. Employees who undergo surgery can go either way. Some people end up having multiple surgeries that include pins and screws. Walking or standing for long periods of time becomes very painful and interferes with essential job duties. The average payout amount awarded is going to depend upon several factors.
Average workers’ comp settlement for ankle surgery
In Michigan, there isn’t a specified amount for a workers’ comp settlement for an ankle surgery. The statistics published by the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency shows the average payout amount in Michigan for 2022 was just $62,316.56. Many people receive more than the average when evidence shows permanent restrictions and lifetime medical.
The average payout amount is going to depend upon how much money the insurance company thinks it must pay in benefits. Insurance companies look at future medical needs and how long a person is expected to be off work. Insurance companies know the value of claims and they do not want to overpay.
What is considered a good amount?
We tell our clients that a good Michigan workers’ comp settlement for ankle surgery provides sufficient money to cover future medical needs and several years of wage loss benefits. Watch out for insurance companies who offer low-ball settlement amounts based upon biased medical and vocational opinions. The average Michigan workers’ comp settlement for ankle surgery is brought down by insurance companies who play games.
Many of our clients get more than average settlement amount. This is accomplished by developing medical evidence showing continuing disability. A doctor needs to explain how the surgery will keep an employee from doing his or her job. It will be up to a doctor to establish work restrictions. If the employer cannot accommodate work restrictions, wage loss benefits should be paid. The more wage loss benefits that need to be paid, the higher the offer will be for a settlement. Watch out for insurance companies who attempt to use post-injury wage earning capacity (PIWEC) to unfairly reduce what should be paid.
Medical treatment plan
In order to maximize your Michigan workers’ comp settlement for ankle surgery, a medical treatment plan should also be developed showing what types of items will be needed in the future. This includes not just surgery but prescription medications and physical therapy. We have seen individuals undergo multiple ankle surgeries that eventually results in a fusion. Some individuals who undergo surgery need attendant care services to help with activities of daily living. This can add thousands of dollars to a claim and must not be ignored when evaluating for settlement.
Never blindly accept opinions from the “independent” medical examiner who is bought and paid for by the insurance company. Speak with an experienced work injury lawyer who can help protect rights.
Injured at work? Contact us for a free consultation
If you had ankle surgery due to an injury at work in Michigan and you have questions on how that will affect your workers’ comp settlement call now (855) 221-2667 to speak with an experienced work injury or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers for more than 40 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand Michigan workers comp laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled employees exclusively for more than 40 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions And Workers’ Comp Claims: Here’s What To Know
