Settlements

Tip #1 It does not hurt to ask. You will not get what you do not ask for. The Insurance Company will make you an offer. Ask for more.

Tip#2 Ask for future medical coverage. All they will do is say no. You can come back with a set number for future medical.

Tip#3 Tell them you are willing to go to trial if you do not get what you want. The insurance company does not always want to go to trial. It costs them money to get a lawyer and increases their exposure.

Tip #4 It does not cost you any up front money to get a lawyer. All Workmans Comp fees are paid at the end of the case based on a percentage of the award. You can use this as leverage also. The Insurance Company has to pay their attorney by the hour.

It is not enough to know you were hurt at work.

You must prove it to the Arbitrator.

Insurance Companies are not fair.

The Law is not fair.

The injured worker has the burden of proving everything under the Illinois Work Comp law.

Insurance Companies can deny your medical benefits and pay when they feel like it.

Unless you force the Insurance Company to go to court to get your bills paid and your payments started.

You must accept what the Insurance Company offers you for a settlement.

Unless you are willing to fight the Insurance Company.

Every case is different. However, if you are happy with the money offered, all the medical bills are paid, and you are certain you will not have future medical problems then you should settle your case.

Work Comp trials will result in an award from the Arbitrator for your injury, your time off work and your medical bills.

A trial will also provide you with the possibility of future medical coverage.

Future medical treatment can be very valuable.

Workmans compensation trials do take longer than a settlement, but they are often the only way to get all your bills paid, or to get full value, or obtain future medical.