Last week we discussed why your wages make a difference in how much money you receive for your work injury settlement or award.
This week we will discuss how the type of injury you suffered impacts your work accident settlement or award.
For instance, if you suffer a concussion, or fracture, or herniated disc this will effect the amount of money you receive.
Some states pay you a set amount for a fracture.
Illinois law does not do this. The law has developed to pay within a range for the type of injury you suffered.
Over time the settlement range develops and may change according to the political climate or the ways the Arbitrators and Commissioners view the injuries.
The basis of the value is how the injury creates a permanent partial disability in the injured worker.
In other words, a fracture is seen as changing your body long term because it may lead to arthritis. Or a concussion may result in ongoing headaches or memory issues. A herniated disc may be seen as effecting the spine and nerve roots over time.
Valuation in Illinois is seen as a balance of what the Arbitrators and Commissioners interpret for each injury or diagnosis. More of an art or feel for each injury type versus set numbers.
This is why it is helpful to have a lawyer guide you to make sure that you receive a fair settlement.
Questions about your injury? Feel free to contact Illinois Work Injury Attorney Dirk May to discuss your workers’ compensation case at 309-827-4371.