In Pennsylvania, after a work-related injury or illness, the majority of employees are eligible for workers' compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical expenses, income lost due to time absent from work, and other costs associated with a permanent disability. In cases of severe or long-lasting injuries, the workers' compensation insurance company may offer a lump sum settlement. Learn more about the Pennsylvania workers' compensation program and what to consider prior to accepting a lump sum settlement in this article.

If you have questions or would like a free consultation to discuss your PA workers’ compensation case, please contact a workers compensation attorney at Brandon J. Broderick today.

What Does Workers’ Comp Cover in Pennsylvania?

Workers' compensation insurance provides wage replacement and medical benefits to employees who are injured, become ill, or experience a worsening of a preexisting condition as a result of their employment, regardless of fault.

If you are injured on the job, your employer or their insurance company is responsible for covering all medical expenses incurred as a direct result of your injury.

Workers' compensation in Pennsylvania will cover:

• Typically, two-thirds of your typical weekly wages will be replaced if you suffer an injury that prevents you from working. However, there is a limit on this amount.
  
• All medical expenses associated with the injury sustained while on the job.
  
• A worker is entitled to specific loss benefits if he or she loses the use of a body part, whether wholly or partially. Payment of disability benefits is based on a schedule that specifies the number of months for which an injured worker will be compensated for income loss resulting from a work-related injury.
  
• If the injured worker dies as a consequence of a workplace accident, their family will receive death benefits.

How Do Lump-Sum Settlements For Workers' Compensation Work?

Following the filing of your workers' compensation claim in PA and the progression of your case through the system, the insurance company may offer you a lump sum settlement. Typically, a lump sum workers' compensation settlement comprises a single large payment made to the injured worker to cover workers' compensation benefits. In lieu of a structured settlement, where the insurance company makes periodic payments, a lump sum settlement is offered.

You may be offered a lump sum settlement for one set of benefits and a structured settlement for another. For instance, the insurance provider may offer a lump sum to cover all past and future medical expenses, but structured payments for the lost income portion of the benefits. In either case, it is essential to know what to consider when a lump sum settlement is offered.

Should I Accept a Lump Sum Settlement Offer?

Insurance companies benefit more than individuals from lump sum settlements. Prior to making a decision, it is essential to consider all of your expenses and prognosis, despite the allure of a large sum of money. After accepting a settlement offer, you cannot reopen the claim, even if circumstances change.

If you have suffered a severe injury or have a chronic illness, your medical prognosis may not be known for some time. In such a circumstance, you may not have a complete understanding of your total medical expenses. If you accept the settlement offer, you cannot subsequently request reimbursement for unexpected expenses, even if your diagnosis changes.

You may also need to consider how a workers' compensation settlement may affect other programs, such as Medicare and Social Security Disability. Before agreeing to a settlement, you should consult a PA workers' compensation attorney to discuss your options. They can also assist you in estimating the potential value of your claim and the average worker's compensation settlement.

A PA Workers’ Comp Attorney at Brandon J. Broderick Can Help You Determine If You Should Accept a Workers’ Comp Settlement Offer

When you choose Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you will have a representative on your side who cares about your workers' compensation or personal injury case. We have the resources and experience required to help you win your case.

Contact us as soon as possible if you have been injured on the job. We can discuss your legal options and formulate a winning strategy. Never get involved in a legal situation without adequate knowledge. If you require assistance, we are available to provide it. Contact us today. We provide free consultations.