So you’ve been injured at work. You’ve got your weekly benefits agreed upon. So what’s next? Is that all the money you’ll receive? After treatment is complete do you get a settlement?
What Exactly is a Settlement?
A settlement is a negotiated agreement between an injured worker and their employer or the insurance company that provides workers’ compensation coverage. The settlement typically involves a lump sum payment to the injured worker in exchange for them waiving any further rights to pursue legal action against their employer or the insurance company. This lump sum payment is meant to cover all of the costs associated with the injury, including medical bills, lost wages, and in some cases, ongoing treatment needs. For people asking things like “how much is a soft tissue injury worth” or whether a pain and suffering calculator is accurate, this is where the real-life number actually gets decided, not on an online form.
Do You Get a Settlement After Treatment?
Not always but in many cases, yes, settlement is discussed after you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) or your doctor says you’re as good as you’re going to get. Insurers like to wait until they can see:
- your final diagnosis,
- your work restrictions,
- any permanent impairment rating,
- and whether future medical is likely.
That’s because all of these affect value. It’s the same reason someone googling 3 herniated disc settlement or how much is 2 herniated disc settlement won’t get a reliable dollar figure online: the insurer wants your medical records, your wages, and your restrictions.
So the better way to put it is:
“In many workers’ compensation claims, you can negotiate a settlement once treatment is complete or you reach MMI, especially if there is permanent impairment or future medical.”
If your doctor orders additional care, such as injections, that can sometimes support a stronger number. People often ask how much does steroid injection increases settlement in Illinois. The honest answer is: it doesn’t raise it by a fixed amount, but documented, doctor-directed treatment can help show the insurer that your claim has ongoing value.
What are the Expenses Related to Being Injured?
Being injured at work can create costs beyond the doctor’s bill. You may:
- miss time from work,
- need a light-duty job,
- need vocational rehabilitation or retraining,
- or need periodic treatment to manage symptoms.
If you can’t go back to your old role, your lawyer can argue for money that reflects those limitations. This is especially relevant when you have multi-level spinal issues, like a back injury settlement without surgery or a herniated disc settlement without surgery, because the insurer may try to value it like a minor strain. Documented restrictions, MRIs and specialist opinions all help.
Attending approved workers’ comp physical therapy during work hours also shows the injury is still affecting your ability to do your job. That does not automatically increase the settlement, but it gives your lawyer better evidence to negotiate with.
How Long Does it Take to Claim Settlement?
The length of time it takes to claim a settlement depends on the complexity of your case and the amount of evidence you have to support your claim. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for a settlement to be reached. Your lawyer will work with you throughout the process to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. It’s important to be patient and work with your lawyer to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome.
Do Similar Cases Receive the Same Amount of Settlement?
When you file for workers’ compensation, you are given a rating, and you are entitled to the value of that rating. However, just because you receive the same rating as someone else doesn’t mean that you’re going to receive the same settlement that they did. Every case is evaluated independently because the circumstances of your injury are specific to your case.
Settlements will range based on the value of your claim. Many factors will be taken into consideration when deciding your settlement, such as how you were injured, how severe your injury is, and the amount of work you’ve had to miss.
What Should You Do if You Don’t Get a Settlement?
If you don’t get a settlement, you may be able to pursue legal action against your employer or the insurance company. This is a complicated process, and it’s important to have an experienced lawyer on your side. Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and determine if you have a case. They can also help you negotiate a fair settlement if one is available.
Should You Work with an Attorney?
Yes, especially where there’s a spine injury, multiple levels, or an IME that downplays your symptoms. A good workers’ compensation lawyer can:
- explain the value of your claim in your state,
- tell you whether closing future medical is a good idea,
- and negotiate so the insurer doesn’t sell you short.
Don’t let the insurance company tell you your herniated disc settlement without surgery is “low” just because you didn’t have an operation. Conservative treatment can still prove impairment.
