Should I Take a Lump-Sum Settlement?
Should I Take A Lump-Sum Settlement?You are entitled to medical treatment and weekly wage benefits if you cannot work because of a job-related injury. These disability benefits continue indefinitely if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
Under Illinois workers' compensation, employees have the option of a cash settlement in lieu of weekly disability checks. The pros and cons of a lump-sum settlement must be carefully weighed because it closes your workers' comp claim.
Experienced Legal Advocacy For An Important DecisionSeidman Margulis & Fairman, LLP, has represented injured workers in the Chicago area for over 40 years. We can help you decide whether to take a workers' compensation settlement and negotiate on your behalf if you do so. Without a knowledgeable attorney, you could be signing away future rights or settling your case for less than full value.
- We can negotiate maximum settlement of your temporary total disability, permanent total disability, or permanent partial disability. This includes compensation for anticipated medical care. A state arbitrator must approve any settlement.
- If you are not recovered from your injury and still receiving medical treatment, the best course may be to settle your wage claim but keep your medical benefits open. This involves a hearing before an arbitrator of the Illinois Industrial Commission. It takes as much as a year to get a hearing and the arbitrator's decision is binding.
- You may decide to simply keep your workers' compensation claim open, to cover your ongoing medical care and to receive weekly wage benefits until you heal or reach the maximum number of weeks.
The right decision for you depends on your specific circumstances, including the degree of disability and medical services you will likely require. Our attorneys will give you the honest answers and accurate information you need to make an informed decision. We can help structure a lump-sum settlement so that the money is there to cover future needs.
Talk To A Lawyer In A Free ConsultationCall our Chicago law office at (312) 781-1977 to set up a free initial consultation, or fill out our contact form and we will respond soon.
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