Did your friend tell you that he broke a big toe and received a workers’ compensation settlement of $1,000,000.  Did they refer you to their attorney who says that your claim is worth that much?  If that’s what they told you, plain and simple, they’re lying.   In the history of Illinois Workers’ Compensation, no one has ever received a $1,000,000 settlement for a broken toe. 

The point is, is that  people can tell you that your case is worth a lot of money, but unless you have your claim evaluated by a competent experienced workers’ compensation attorney, there is no way of  knowing the value of your claim. 

There is no easy way to determine what your case may be worth. When evaluating a claim, we look at the following: 

• What is the extent of your injuries? (fractures, herniated disks) – A thorough examination of your medical records is necessary to determine the extent and permanency of your injuries.

• What type of medical treatment was required? -  A thorough examination of your medical records is necessary to determine what treatment was required: diagnostic testing, surgery, physical therapy, etc.  Is your treatment ongoing? Will you need treatment at some point in the future (i.e. knee replacement, back fusion)

• Do you have any physical restrictions? -  Another factor taken into consideration is your ability to perform your job. If you are unable to return to your previous profession because you are physically unable to do the work, what are those restrictions?  Are they temporary or permanent? Can you do any type of work?

• What were your wages at the time of the accident? – In order to determine the value of your claim, we need to establish your gross weekly wage in the year preceding your accident.  

• Were all your medical bills paid? - We also need to itemize any unpaid medical bills.   If the insurance company is responsible for these bills they should be paid or included in a settlement.  If the bills are unpaid and not addressed prior to settlement, they could become your responsibility. 
  

These are just a few of the things we look at in determining the value of  a workers' compensation claim.   If you want an accurate, honest evaluation of your claim, call our office at 800- 437-2571 for a free no obligation consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.